Network Frame Loss Measurement Using Test Frames
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Network connections between computing devices often experience frame loss, which affects device performance, and existing methods lack effective measures for accurately measuring this loss.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for measuring frame loss on a network connection between a near-device (NED) and a far-end device (FED) using test frames with sequence numbers, where the NED generates and transmits test frames, and the FED responds with reflected test frames containing sequence numbers and counter values, allowing the NED to calculate one-way and roundtrip frame loss values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If test frames are transmitted over the network connection to measure frame loss, then measurement capability is improved, but network bandwidth is consumed and measurement overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by transmitting only a limited number of test frames at controlled intervals rather than continuous transmission. The measurement function performs frame loss calculations based on selective sampling of test frames, which provides sufficient measurement accuracy while consuming minimal network bandwidth. This resolves the contradiction by achieving adequate measurement precision without excessive resource consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement function utilizes existing network infrastructure and protocols to perform frame loss measurement. The system leverages the network connection's inherent capabilities to transmit and receive test frames, and automatically calculates frame loss metrics without requiring additional external measurement equipment or services. This self-service approach minimizes additional bandwidth consumption while maintaining measurement capability.
2Measurement precision
If multiple test frames with sequence numbers are used to calculate frame loss, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the frame loss measurement process into distinct functional components: test frame generation with sequence numbers, transmission over the network, reception and tracking at the measurement function, and calculation of frame loss metrics. Each component handles a specific aspect of the measurement, which simplifies the overall processing complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy through systematic tracking of individual frames.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement function implements feedback mechanisms by tracking received test frames using sequence numbers and comparing expected versus actual reception. The system continuously monitors frame loss and provides feedback metrics that can be used to adjust measurement parameters or trigger network diagnostics. This feedback approach improves measurement accuracy while keeping processing complexity manageable through automated comparison and calculation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for measuring frame loss on a connection between a near-device (NED) and a far-end device (FED). The method includes: placing, on the connection, multiple test frames having a plurality of sequence numbers; obtaining, from the connection, a first reflected test frame having a first sequence number, a first FED receiving counter value from the FED, and an initial FED received count from the FED; obtaining, from the connection, a second reflected test frame having a second sequence number, a second FED receiving counter value from the FED, and the initial FED received count from the FED; and calculating a one-way frame loss value on the connection based on the second sequence number and the initial FED received count.