legacy Archives - Page 3 of 3 - Management Services and Solutions

Apple macOS 64-bit transition – Software ‘Legacy’ issues

32-bit Application compatibility Issues resulting from macOS updates

Issues have started to appear using existing and older software applications on Apple Macintosh computers with the transition from 32-bit to 64-bit operating systems, commencing with macOS High Sierra 10.13.4, and it’s set to get a whole lot worse!

Current Difficulties

Noticeable problems with applications have surfaced with the update to macOS Mojave.

Strange and unwanted things have crept in. For example:

opening a new Finder window causes a new tab to open instead. It’s like the wrong option has been selected – now opening a tab or a window are incorrectly identical. If you want a new Finder window, you need to then select ‘move this tab to a new window’. So suddenly this is a two-stage process

New Finder window opens a New Tab instead

Trying to print from Microsoft Word causes the application to ‘crash’. The work-around for this is its still possible to print by using the toolbar button, instead of selecting ‘print’ from the drop-down menu. But then this doesn’t allow for changing print settings etc.

Microsoft Word quits when trying to print

Promise of worse compatibility problems

This is just the ‘tip of the iceberg’. A whole range of software applications which currently run happily on the Apple Mac are set to become unusable in the next update to macOS. We’re talking about mainstream applications such as Microsoft Office as well as ‘niche’ applications that you may utilise. This appears to represent the biggest shift in software compatibility since the change from Mac ‘Classic’ (OS 9 and before) to Mac OSX, more than 10 years ago.

A warning is displayed when a 32-bit application is launched in macOS High Sierra, and in macOS Mojave the alert appears every 30 days.

The official Apple advice is to ‘contact the application developer’. For the average user, that’s unlikely to achieve anything, particularly for mature applications that perhaps are no longer available or don’t have ongoing development. With something like Microsoft Word, then it should be possible to obtain the latest version, but naturally that will require a new purchase and/or an annual subscription.

Purchasing a new version of existing software will be an expensive business to just maintain your existing functionality

Maintenance Decisions

The standard maintenance advice for computers is to upgrade to the latest available version of operating software; that way, security patches are up-to-date, keeping the system secure, with new functionality as well as bug fixes provided, and support for the latest applications.

On this occasion however, it is worth taking a long considered look at the benefits of upgrading verses sticking with your current macOS release. If you haven’t yet moved to macOS High Sierra 10.13.4 or macOS Mojave 10.14 then you may wish to stay where you are for now, particularly if you’re happy with your current applications and functionality, such as Microsoft Word 2008. If you’re contemplating upgrading, either because you ‘must’ for security purposes or need to support a new generation application, then it will be worth taking the time now to review all of your existing software and work out what the upgrade path will be, or find out what the alternatives you could migrate to e.g. Apple’s ‘Pages’ to replace Microsoft Word, etc.

The most worrying situation will be for owners of specific hardware e.g. the M-Audio USB Midi interface, which may not (and never will) have a suitable updated driver software alternative

In such circumstances of uncertain application support, backups are as always essential; ideally you should be in a position to ‘roll-back’, dual-boot and/or run virtual machines to maintain previous applications and functionality.

Consideration should also be given to maintaining a dedicated computer at the existing macOS version, and over time, migrating day-to-day applications (where they can be) to a new computer, keeping the old machine for ‘legacy support’.

Further Assistance

Take a look at the full Apple announcement about the transition to 64-bit technology and how it affects 32-bit apps.

@YellowsBestLtd satisfies new and ‘legacy’ requirements for the maintenance of systems and networks by providing services, such as technical assistance and hardware repairs, and solutions, including the supply of spare part items and software support.

We would be keen to hear from you regarding your operational needs, please get in touch.

Keymile UMUX – Multiservice access solutions

Comprehensive Functionality

The UMUX platform provides carrier-grade reliable multi-service multiplexing and aggregation functions over copper and fibre networks. A variety of voice (POTS, FSX, FSO, ISDN) and data (e.g. G.703, V.11, V,24, V,35) interfaces, SHDSL and Ethernet (including PoE+ and EoS) services are available.

The modular and flexible housing provided by the UMUX 1500 (8U, 21-slot) and UMUX 1200 (4U, 8-slot) 19” subracks provide the perfect solution for all applications and locations, offering redundant controller and power supplies.

‘Legacy’ telecoms history

The UMUX SDH product portfolio was originally launched 1991 by Ascom, which subsequently became Keymile.

In 2003, by when 70,000 units had been deployed worldwide, the ‘enhanced’ UMUX multiservice access platform was introduced, offering the delivery of ATM, TDM and IP based services from the same platform, with support for IP/Ethernet, ADSL, VoDSL and G.SHDL.

Keymile was sold to ABB in 2017 when the UMUX range was discontinued, and then was acquired in 2019 by DZS.

Continuing to provide operational service

The UMUX, together with the UNEM network management system and ‘sister’ LINERUNNER and MILEGATE products, continues to provide operational service with various global Operator, Utilities and Transport companies.

@YellowsBestLtd supports requirements to maintain these networks by supplying various spare part items from refurbished and surplus stocks in perfect working order.

There follows a list of the main elements that are typically provided, though other items can be provided. Please let us know of any specific requirements you may have. We look forward to being of assistance.

Part Code	Unit type	Description
A31A1679	U1500-CS	U1500 Core R2 (DC) for 19″ mounting (incl. Subrack, POSUM, COBUX 128x2Mb/s XC)
A30A0205	DATAS-FU	Data Interface unit. Multi-Interface V.35, V.24/V.28, X.24/V.11, RS485, Ethernet, 4 ports, all options
A24A3323	LOMIF-FU	2 Mb/s IF (E1), 8 x G.703 Interfaces
A24A3651	COBUX-FU	Control Unit Standard,128x2Mb/s XC
A21A2865	EXLAN342	POTS FxO Interface Unit, 12 ports, complex impedance
A31A7871	GECOD371	Data IF 64kb/s G.703 codir., 8 interfaces
A24A3338	LOMI4-FU	2 Mb/s IF (E1), 4 x G.703 Interfaces
A24A7979	POSUM306	Power supply unit -48VDC 85W
A30A1442	SUBH3-FU	POTS FxS Interface Unit, 30 ports
A31A7873	SULIS393	ISDN Interface Unit Subscriber side, ISDN BA 2B1Q, 8 interfaces
A23A9927	SYNAC-FU	SDH Access bridging unit SBUS-PBUS, 8xVC-12; no external IF
A24A1989	TUPON-FU	Optical Trunk Interface 8Mbit/s 1xopt.(o), 4xel.(e), 1550nm, PBUS access

Nokia ‘Dynanet’ Telecoms – Stock disposal

‘Last chance’ for spares!

The Nokia ‘Dynanet’ family of PDH Transmission telecoms products has served customers well for the last 20+ years, and indeed some networks continue providing good operational service.

@YellowsBestLtd has supported requirements to maintain these networks by supplying various spare part items from refurbished and surplus stocks in perfectly working order.

However, demand has recently reduced and warehouse space is needed, so now the time has come to recycle / dispose of a large proportion of the remaining equipment. Consequently, there remains a short-term opportunity to obtain any items still required to maintain existing deployed infrastructure, before the products are gone.

Here is a stock list of the main items currently available, though there may be a few additional parts that can be supplied. Hence, please check and if you do have any requirements, please let us know – before it’s too late! We look forward to hearing from you.

Part Number	Description
24204	TPSO H/W Module
CC 24002	DB2 Branching Unit, B2 2×2 Mb/s 75 ohm
CC 24011	DB2 2 Mb/s Switching Unit, X2 75 ohm
CC 24101	DN2 Interface Unit (IU2) 2×2 Mb/s 75 ohm
CC 24111	DN2 Control Unit (CU) 75 ohm
CF 24186	DN2 19″ Subrack
CF 24186.09	DN2 Subrack 19″, grey-L91 EMC
CG 24170	DN2 Bus Power Unit (BPU)
CG 24171	Extended DN2 Bus Power Unit (EBPU)
CU 24013	Data Interface Unit (DIU) 2M, nx64k: G.703/704, 75 ohm
T30506.09	17-slot DYNANET Subrack
T30851.02	Subrack Power Adapter (SPA)
T37870.01	NDM ACM2 19in 17-slot subrack
T37871.01	NDM DN2 19″ 17-Slot Subrack
T37882.01	NDM DC Unit (NDUe)
T37882.02	NDM DC Unit (NDUe)
T37885.01	NDM Ring Generator
T37889.01	NDM Backup Unit (NBU)
T65520.01	ACL2 RM DC Power Gen
T65580.01	ACL2i PF GEN Line Terminal Card
TA 21513	Optical Line Terminal Repeater 2-8 M, 1300 nm LED MM/SM
TA 21516	Optical Line Terminal Repeater 2-8 M, 1300 nm LASER SM
TC 21101	DM34 Mux Card
TC 21301	DM8 Multiplex Equipment, 75 ohm
TC 21705	Supervisory Substation
TC 21710.01	TMS Adapter
TG 21261	Ring Generator 25HZ 15W
TU 21122.5	Data Interface Unit (DIU) 48..64k V.11 10ch
TU 21124	Data Interface Unit (DIU) NX64k V.11/V.35/X.21 2CH
TU 21124.05	Data Interface Unit (DIU)
TU 21125	Data Interface Unit (DIU) 48..64k with sync, X.21
TU 21205	Channel Unit SUB/SUB
TU 21206	Channel Unit SUB/SUB
TU 21215	Channel Unit SUB/EXCH
TU 21216	Channel Unit SUB/EXCH
TU 21234.20	Channel Unit E&M/VF-P, 10 CH, 20 E&M CH
TU 21236.10	Channel Unit (CU) 8ch E&M/uP: 2xe&m/vf
TU 21255.01	Channel Switch, 4 PORT
TV 21640.08	Power Interface Adapter DC

Keeping Customers Operational – ‘telling’ not ‘selling’

@YellowsBestLtd our mission is to provide our Customers with Management Services and Solutions so their infrastructure networks continue to serve and perform – “Keeping Customers Operational”

Needs vary from the launch of the latest IT and Telecoms technologies through to the support of well-established legacy systems.

Given that each organisation is unique, both in its business practices and deployed infrastructure, then we find that its best to take a flexible approach and provide tailored services to suit exacting demands.

Our no-cost and no-obligation Customer consultation is all about finding out needs, regardless of technology or manufacturer, and then sourcing the required solution(s), which may mean seeking out difficult to obtain products or requiring the supply of specialist services. So in essence, it’s not about us ‘selling’ them something we have, but rather our clients ‘telling’ us what to provide. Making it easier and more convenient for busy procurement and operational teams, saving them effort, time and cost.

We’re always keen to see how we can enhance our range of #business services, increase the #enterprise infrastructure we support and expand our mix of #systems solutions to supply the required #technologies and products for our customers.

Please help us understand what services would be of interest to you to support your systems requirements, by getting in touch; we look forward to hearing from you.

*Business Services*
Day Rate	Operations & Maintenance	Engineering Site Visits	Hardware Repair
Project Based	Training	Solutions Sourcing	Software Support
Consultancy	Telephone Assistance	Spares Supply	Reverse Logistics & Value Recovery

*Enterprise Infrastructure*
Alcatel-Lucent	Bosch	Ernitec	Ganz
Huawei	IBM	Keymile	Marconi
Nokia	Pelco	RAD	360Vision

*Sustainable Solutions*
Legacy Systems	Refurbishment	Testing	Craft Terminals
Spares Sourcing	Repairs	Maintenance	Technical Support
New Telecoms Infrastructure	Functional Replacements	Reverse Engineering	Management Systems

*Technologies & Products*
PDH Access	SDH Transport	IP / MPLS	CCTV Cameras
Copper Cabling	Microwave Radio	Pseudo-wire	Solar Energy
IT / Servers	DWDM / CWDM	Carrier Ethernet	PMR / TETRA

“TESTERS” – Test Equipment to suit all deployed technologies

Customers who own infrastructure systems usually require some form of test equipment to assist with the build, operation and maintenance activities.

Given the mixture of old and new technologies now deployed, consequently the range of available test equipment options has grown considerably. And like the infrastructure systems themselves, new functionality demands and obsolescence issues also affect the associated test equipment needs and availability.

@YellowsBestLtd assists Customers by sourcing the required test equipment, supplying either modern or legacy units. Often refurbished ex-hire equipment in excellent condition and at commercially attractive prices makes sense over leasing. This ensures the continued availability of sets of the appropriate specification, which may become discontinued by the manufacturers over time.

If necessary, we can also arrange the repair of existing units, especially those that perform very specific functions that cannot easily be replicated with more recent equipment.

There follows a brief description of many of the types of test equipment available; we would be very keen to hear from you to understand your specific requirements, so please get in touch!

Calibration Checkboxes

Calibration checkboxes, or electrical checkboxes, are used for routine observations of test equipment and allow users to maintain accuracy in between official calibration procedures. Suitable for use with PAT testers and with other testers and instruments.

Component Analysers

These test the efficiency and status of components including transistors and capacitors. An essential instrument for development engineering when specific components are used in product design.

Earth Loop Testers

Loop impedance testers, or loop testers, verify the loop impedance of a live electrical circuit without disconnecting from the electrical supply. Most testers include non-tripping RCD technology as standard to prevent unexpected outages.

Earth Testers

These verify that electrical current paths are safely earthed. Earth spike testers, high current loop testers with earth stakes and leads are available.

EMF Meters

EMF meters are used for verifying the presence of electrical magnetic fields given off by electrical equipment. Ideal for use in heavy-duty electrical applications and laboratory testing conditions.

EVSE Testers

EVSE testers are purpose-built for the installation, testing and maintenance of electrical vehicle supply equipment and are an essential for use by electrical vehicle charging point installers, manufacturers and anyone else involved with EVSE equipment.

Insulation & Continuity Testers

A wide range of insulation and continuity testing instruments which include Megger insulation testers, insulation resistance testers, Fluke testers and insulation meters from Amprobe, DiLog, Seaward, Metrel, Martindale, Kewtech and Extech.

LCR Meters

LCR meters get their name from their testing capabilities – they can test inductance (L), capacitance (C) and resistance (R).

Multifunction Testers

Ideal for use when completing or testing an electrical installation. The huge range of MFTs include the Fluke 1600 range and Megger installation testers.

Optical Fibre Inspectors

Quickly find and inspect the right port. Like having a built in flash-light so you can see in dark areas and dense panels. Pause button holds the image for viewing when it’s hard to get it just right. Bright backlit display. Screw-on probe tips to support most connector types.

Optical Fibre Visual Fault Locators

Locates fibres, finds faults, verifies continuity and polarity. Locates visual faults including tight bends, breaks and bad connectors. Easily verifies polarity and identifies fibres. Features continuous and flashing modes.

Optical Power Meters

Multimode and Singlemode Power and Loss Measurements. Multiple kit configurations with light sources for single mode, multimode and PON fibre optics. Min/Max capability automates tracking of intermittent power fluctuations.

PAT Testers

For Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) routine safety checking of electrical equipment, including dual insulation test voltages and portable RCD lead testing, with adjustable PASS testing limits and substitute/mains powered leakage testing procedures.

Power Quality Analysers

These provide a comprehensive snapshot of how power is being used in your facility and verify where energy is being lost. The latest power analysers and power analysis tools include those from Fluke and Hioki.

Production Line Safety Testers

Perfect for laboratories and product design applications, the equipment in this category can be used to verify electrical safety, service equipment using multiple electrical parameters and to simulate PAT conditions.

Proving Units

An essential accompaniment to a voltage tester, proving units verify that the tester remains accurate both before and after testing. Both the NICEIC and NAPIT strongly recommend using these regularly when testing.

RCD Testers

For testing RCD trip time and overall residual current device safety/efficiency. Available are handheld RCD testers, Megger RCD testers, RCD analysers and multifunctional RCD testers which also measure loop and PSC.

Socket Testers

These testers are placed into a socket to assess faults with the wiring using audio/visual feedback.

Telecom Datacom Analysers

Ideally suiting traditional telecommunications networking requirements, typically providing testing at V.24, V.35, V.11/X.21 interfaces at rates up to 2 Mb/s. Also a full range of BER/BLER measurements, control-circuit timing analysis with transitions diagrams and storage in text and graphic form.

Voltage Testers

Voltage Testers

These verify the presence of voltage, and allow full test of voltage levels. Instruments are available from the leading test equipment manufacturers such as Fluke, Kewtech, Martindale, Amprobe and Megger.

Legacy and New Infrastructure Spares

Most Customers’ infrastructure systems now consist of a wide range of technologies from the very old to relatively recent, having been built to serve operational requirements for a number of years. In many cases, these requirements don’t significantly change, and it therefore makes sense to keep these systems in place to maximise the use of the investment and avoid whole-scale change-outs that would be costly, disruptive and unnecessary.

@YellowsBestLtd locates hard-to-find replacement spare parts to keep legacy infrastructure in operational service that has been deemed ‘obsolete’ by the manufacturers, as well as supplying additional spares for newer systems that can be used to increase capacity or provide alternative interfaces.

Typically we provide refurbished spares, tested and working, but often it is the case that unused products from surplus stocks can be supplied. Hence for both old and new systems, we are usually able to source parts at very commercially competitive rates and with short lead-times.

Here is a selection of items that we’ve recently been helping customers procure or obtain parts for. Keen to hear what requirements you may have, so please get in touch.

Alcatel	AnyMedia Access System
Bosch	MIC-400, -550 and -7130 Cameras
Dialogic	I-Gate 4000 System
Huawei	UMG8900 Node
Marconi	ST68NB Matrix and 1HAT60558ADV
Meraki	MS250 switch and MR52 access point
Motorola	Terayon DM6400 Network CherryPicker
Nokia	Dynanet PDH Subrack and 9500 MPR ODU
Pelco	S5220 Spectra CCTV Camera
Siemens	SRT1 C Base Band Unit