Field Notice: FN - 63596 - AGC Function - Compact EGC Single / Dual Output Amplifiers A93280/A9370 - Replace on Failure

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Updated:January 22, 2019
Document ID:FN63596

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Notice

THIS FIELD NOTICE IS PROVIDED ON AN "AS IS" BASIS AND DOES NOT IMPLY ANY KIND OF GUARANTEE OR WARRANTY, INCLUDING THE WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY. YOUR USE OF THE INFORMATION ON THE FIELD NOTICE OR MATERIALS LINKED FROM THE FIELD NOTICE IS AT YOUR OWN RISK. CISCO RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE OR UPDATE THIS FIELD NOTICE AT ANY TIME.

Revision History

Revision Publish Date Comments
1.0
16-Jun-16
Initial Release
10.0
10-Oct-17
Migration to new field notice system
10.1
22-Jan-19
Fixed Broken Image Links

Products Affected

Affected Product ID Comments
15454-M-TNC-K9
A93270.10240
A93270.10340
A93280.10240
A93280.10340

Defect Information

Defect ID Headline
CSCvf34445 There were no defects filed with this field notice at the time of publication.

Problem Description

The Compact EGC Single and Dual amplifiers can be extended with an optional AGC module (Automatic Gain Control) allowing the amplifier to keep a constant slope and output level as input changes. In some cases the AGC function of the amplifier realign slope and output level with a step size that cannott be handled by certain QAM-tuners used in set-top boxes and TV-sets. When this occurs, the tuner loses synchronization and for a short period of time the viewer may experience a picture freeze or a loss of picture on digital channels (QAM-channels).

On analogue channels the realignment by the AGC function will pass unnoticed. If the AGC function has been disabled (AGC = Standby), the amplifier will work properly. Amplifiers without optional AGC module installed will work properly.

Only those amplifiers with the optional AGC module (Automatic Gain Control) installed will encounter the issue described in this field notice. The reference of the AGC module is given hereunder.

Pid Description
A93270.10240 Compact EGC Dual Output Amp,1GHz,40dB,230VAC
A93280.10240 Compact EGC Single Output Amp,1GHz,40dB,230VAC
A93270.10340 Compact EGC Dual Output Amp,1GHz,40dB,65VAC
A93280.10340 Compact EGC Single Output Amp,1GHz,40dB,65VAC
4036170 AGC Module for Compact EGC Amp (A93270/A93280)

Background

The step size of the slope and output level is controlled by the microprocessor of the amplifier and can vary depending on the required realignment.

In the new firmware of the amplifier, the step size for the AGC function has been fixed to 0.1 dB /step, making the slope and output level changes smoother and slower compared to the initial implementation with variable step sizes.

Problem Symptom

The symptoms are not always present since it depends on the required realignment and type of set-top box or TV-set.

The most noticeable symptoms are on digital channels (QAM-channels):

  • Picture freeze for a short period of time
  • Loss of picture for a short period of time
  • The AGC function will realign, if necessary, with intervals of 4 minutes.

Most QAM-analyzers are very sensitive to level changes and will see the realignment of the AGC function as an error or poor signal quality. Therefore it is not recommended to use the QAM-analyzers for evaluating the AGC function. A better way is to see if the set-top box or TV-set gives issues during the realignment.

Workaround/Solution

The firmware of the amplifier can be upgraded in the field by means of a Firmware download kit (4043135).

The firmware versions incorporating the change on the AGC function can be found in the table below.

The firmware can be downloaded from the Cisco.com or request at the TAC. Internal TAC centers can find the firmware at the following location:

\\10.90.140.144\AS_Share\VideoAccessPoint\Martin's Projects\Compact Amplifiers\Firmware

As always, customers have the option to RMA units that they need repaired.

With respect to issues requiring escalation, the TAC will follow normal processes for escalations to the Cable Access Business Unit.

PID Description Firmware Version
A93270.10240 Compact EGC Dual Output Amp,1GHz,40dB,230VAC DEA_1.03.18
A93280.10240 Compact EGC Single Output Amp,1GHz,40dB,230VAC DEA_1.03.18
A93270.10340 Compact EGC Dual Output Amp,1GHz,40dB,65VAC SEA_1.00.11
A93280.10340 Compact EGC Single Output Amp,1GHz,40dB,65VAC SEA_1.00.11

How To Identify Affected Products

The firmware version of the amplifier can be retrieved via its LCI interface by means of the Handheld controller or LCI software. More details can be found in the I/O-guide on Cisco.com at this location

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/products/ps9051/prod_installation_guides_list.html

A label on the unit packaging as well as the unit itself will refer to the installed firmware version. See pictures below for examples.

For More Information

If you require further assistance, or if you have any further questions regarding this field notice, please contact the Cisco Systems Technical Assistance Center (TAC) by one of the following methods:

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