Unravelling the Mystery of a Jitter Noise in an NBN Fault

In the fast-paced world of professional gaming, even a minor disruption can have significant consequences. When a customer in Rose Hill, connected with Aussie Broadband, reported a peculiar jitter noise affecting their NBN connection, it led to a complex and detailed investigation. This case study delves into the nature of the problem, the investigative process, and the insights gained from this unique and challenging experience.

The Problem

Background

The customer, engaged in professional gaming, was on a specific plan tailored to meet their high-demand needs. They began experiencing an unusual jitter noise, leading to disruptions in their gaming experience.

Symptoms

• Jittering Noise: A strange and pervasive jittering noise was detected, affecting the connection.
• Packet Loss: Sporadic spikes in ping, causing packet loss and latency.
• Interference: Suspected interference within the building’s structure, possibly related to the jitter noise.

Investigation

Phase 1: Initial Assessment

Upon arrival, the technician was briefed about the problem, specifically the jitter noise, and the customer’s specific requirements. Aussie Broadband requested a direct test from the NBN site, initiating the investigation.

Setting Up the Test Router

The technician disconnected the existing setup and installed a test router provided by Aussie Broadband. A socket was placed directly on the NBN site for testing.

Phase 2: Discovering the Jittering Noise

The technician soon discovered the peculiar jittering noise in various parts of the connection, including on the steel frames.

Observations

• The noise was loud and present in all pairs.
• None of the steel frames had earthing.
• The noise was also detected on the cable tray and other steel parts.

Hypothesis

The initial suspicion was that it might be related to earthing, but the exact cause remained unclear.

Phase 3: Testing the Connection

A series of tests were conducted to understand the nature of the jitter noise and its impact on the connection.

Mega Ohm Range Test

• Between A and B: Good
• Between A and Earth: Good
• Between B and Earth: Good

Kilo Ohm Range Test

• Between A and B: Good
• Between A and Earth: Good
• Between B and Earth: Good

Ping Test

• Regular ping: 6-10ms
• Intermittent spikes: Up to 200ms, possibly related to the jitter noise.

Phase 4: Anomaly with the Frame

The jittering noise seemed to originate from the frame itself, indicating some sort of interference.

Observations

• The noise was louder across certain pairs.
• The problem seemed localized within the building.
• Possible relation to earthing.

Customer’s Perspective

The customer actively participated in the investigation, providing insights into the symptoms and their impact.

Impact on Gaming and VOIP

• Drop Calls: Interruptions in VOIP calls due to jitter noise.
• Garbled Speech: Distorted speech during communication.
• Jitters and Stuttering: Disruptions in gaming experience.
• Rubber Banding in Games: Unpredictable game behavior.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Findings

• Complex and unusual fault within the NBN connection, specifically related to jitter noise.
• Identified jittering noise and interference.
• Exact cause remained elusive.

Recommendations

• Further Investigation: Involvement of a Level 2 NBN technician to understand the jitter noise.
• Collaboration with Aussie Broadband: Ensuring customer satisfaction.

Table of Key Observations

Final Thoughts

This case study highlights the intricate nature of telecommunications and the multifaceted nature of fault-finding, particularly when dealing with an unusual problem like a jitter noise. The situation in Rose Hill serves as a testament to the expertise required in the field and the commitment to ensuring that even the most perplexing issues are addressed. It’s a challenge that demands precision, knowledge, and a willingness to delve into the unknown, reflecting the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the telecommunications industry.

For expert solutions to your telecommunications needs, including fault-finding, installations, and data cabling, contact SECURE A COM at 02 9188 1577. Open Monday to Friday from 7 am to 5 pm. Let us help you with our deep industry expertise.