Xena Ethernet Test Platform

for Ethernet Traffic Generation, Physical Layer testing and Network Emulation

Xena Ethernet Test Platform

Xena is a full-featured Ethernet traffic generation and network emulation platform with extensive Physical Layer test capabilities and unique Protocol Analysis capabilities. User-friendly test software and test automation options are included with all Xena chassis and test modules enabling comprehensive testing of Ethernet devices at all speeds up to 1.6 Tbps.

Xena Software

Included with all our solutions is a comprehensive selection of software for managing and testing Ethernet:

Xena software supports multi-user ad-hoc test execution via an easy-to-use Windows GUI and a number of standard test applications. All Xena software works seamlessly across the different chassis and test modules. You can also control the test system via a CLI interface or our XOA open-source test automation framework.

Xena software components

Meet XenaManager3

XenaManager 3 (XM3) is a new version of XenaManager loaded with UI improvements to make testing high-speed Ethernet even easier.

The video to the right shows how you can easily start traffic and see the results immediately, even while dragging windows into new positions on your screen.

Ultimately, XM3 will replace the current version of XenaManager which is still required to run e.g. our standalone test suites like Xena2544. Both versions co-exist seamlessly and are bundled together in all our software releases. You can try XM3 now on our Live Demo System.

Top Reasons to Choose Xena

1. Scalability

There are over a dozen different Xena test modules for testing all speeds from 10Mbps  all the way up to 1.6Tbps, via both electrical and optical interfaces. Xena also offers different chassis options: choosing the XenaBay chassis lets you quickly and cost-effectively scale to up to 72 ports in just one chassis, while the XenaCompact with up to 6 ports is ideal as a quiet and easy-to-transport solution for desktop use.

This diversity ensures you can easily extend your solution as the needs evolve, while Xena’s backwards compatibility eliminates the need for additional training or changes in workflows or automation integration.

Xena test solutions are scalable

2. Comprehensive Layer 1 sub-layer insights

While all our solutions support Layer 1 testing, this capability is most evident in our Z800 Freya traffic generators which include our proprietary 56/112G SerDes PHY Layer 1 solution, providing unparalleled access and control over core sub-layers like PCS, PMA, PMD.

Transmitting 100Gbps via PAM-4 over short traces or cables poses signal integrity concerns. Z800 Freya’s unique capabilities gives valuable insights into Layer 1 sub-layers, facilitating understanding of challenges beyond conventional network test tools.

Learn more by reading the Introducing Xena PHY for Layer 1 Testing of 112G SerDes White Paper.

Layer 1 testing

3. Multi-user

Multiple users can work on the same test bed simultaneously, and each user can reserve individual test ports on the same test module, and any number of users can view the configuration of any port.

This ensures maximum flexibility and utilization of the system, thereby reducing the need for additional test modules in multi-user setups.

multi-user solution

Different users in different locations can reserve & use individual ports on the same test module.

4. Uniform test features across all Ethernet speeds

Xena supports the same test features for all Ethernet speeds. This simplifies user testing, enabling uniform testing procedures regardless of interface speed. This is especially advantageous for test automation, streamlining test case development and facilitating seamless transition to higher speeds as technologies evolve.

same test features across Ethernet speeds

5. Unified UI and Automation tools

XenaManager and Xena OpenAutomation (XOA) make it easy to do Ethernet traffic generation, Physical Layer testing and network emulation via a single platform. The unified UI and automation tools facilitate user adoption of new use cases, offering a shared interface for multiple test capabilities within a single workflow. In addition to convenience, this simplifies control and integration of dependencies.

Unified UI and automation options

6. Xena Value Pack

All Xena solutions comes with the strong customer commitment of the Xena Value Pack

  • 3-years’ free access to all software releases
  • All GUIs and Automation APIs are included, including IETF and Xena test suites
  • 3-years’ hardware warranty
  • Free technical support for the lifetime of the product

Combined with our competitive port-pricing, the Xena Value Pack significantly reduces the total cost of investment and streamlines purchasing & license maintenance.

Xena value pack

Learn more about our Ethernet Traffic Generators: