DUT Buffer Size Measurement Through Packet Error Thresholds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems lack an efficient method to determine the buffer size of devices-under-test (DUTs), particularly in 5G applications, leading to increased latency due to high data load and buffer occupancy.
Innovation Solution
A method involving data transmission with defined bit rates, monitoring packet loss, and calculating buffer size based on the difference between transmitting and receiving rates, using Iperf measurements to detect packet error rate thresholds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If buffers are used to compensate for processing speed differences, then data transmission reliability is improved, but latency increases due to high buffer occupancy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors packet loss rates and buffer occupancy levels, then dynamically adjusts transmission parameters. The receiver detects PER increases and sends feedback to the transmitter, which then adapts the transmitting bit rate accordingly. This closed-loop control allows the system to maintain reliable transmission while minimizing buffer occupancy and latency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the transmission system dynamic by allowing the transmitting bit rate to change based on real-time buffer conditions. Instead of using a fixed transmission rate, the system dynamically adjusts the bit rate in response to buffer occupancy feedback, enabling optimal balance between reliability and latency under varying network conditions.
2Productivity
If high data load is transmitted through the network, then productivity is improved, but packet loss increases due to buffer overflow
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from packet loss detection to control transmission rate. When packet loss is detected at the receiver, this information is fed back to the transmitter, which then reduces the transmitting bit rate to prevent buffer overflow, thereby maintaining both high throughput and low packet loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical buffer overflow protection with an information-based control system. Instead of relying on fixed buffer size limits or hardware-based flow control, the system uses packet error rate monitoring and feedback-based rate adaptation to dynamically control data flow, achieving more efficient throughput management.
3Reliability
If buffer size is increased to handle high data load, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service buffer management where the system automatically monitors its own buffer occupancy and packet loss conditions, then autonomously adjusts transmission parameters without external intervention. The receiver independently detects PER increases and triggers feedback to the transmitter, enabling the system to self-regulate buffer usage and maintain reliability without complex external control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent simplifies buffer management by changing the control parameter from fixed buffer size allocation to dynamic transmitting bit rate adjustment. Instead of managing complex buffer sizes and occupancy thresholds, the system controls the single parameter of transmission rate based on packet loss feedback, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability.
4Measurement precision
If packet loss monitoring is implemented to detect PER threshold, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receiver performs self-service packet error rate monitoring by independently counting lost packets and calculating PER without requiring external measurement equipment. The system automatically detects when PER exceeds the threshold and triggers feedback to the transmitter, achieving precise measurement with minimal additional complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method for determining a size of a buffer of a device-under-test, DUT, which is transmitting data. The method comprises the steps of: transmitting a data stream with a transmitting bit rate by means of the DUT, wherein the data stream is loaded into the DUT buffer during said transmission; receiving the data stream with a receiving bit rate at a receiver device; detecting a difference between the transmitting bit rate and the receiving bit rate over time; monitoring a packet loss at the receiver side; detecting a time at which a packet error rate, PER, at the receiver side increases above a threshold based on the monitored packet loss; and calculating a size of the DUT buffer based on a difference between an amount of data transmitted by the DUT and an amount of data received by the receiver device from the start of the transmission until the detected time of the PER increase.