News and Product Updates
“Packet Delay Variation” Functionality Added to JumboSwitch
08/05/2024Adding to the suite of “troubleshooting-at-a-glance” LEDs available on JumboSwitch® products, the new Packet Delay Variation LED provides users with immediate notification that an issue has occurred with the transport Ethernet/IP network.
Key to the operation of TDM-over-Ethernet solutions is the management of the packets of data. As these packets have a variation in inter-packet timing called PDV (Packet Delay Variation), the JumboSwitch utilizes a packet buffer to allow packets to be temporarily stored for use so that packets are available at the required time. The buffer is typically set to two times (2x) the value of the measured network packet delay variation.
In the event that the Ethernet/IP network connecting the cards moves outside the measured PDV, then the packets are used faster than they are received, eventually leading to a point where the buffer empties; at this point, there will be no output from the JumboSwitch card. In this case, the JumboSwitch card will flash the PDV alarm LED to indicate the problem with the Ethernet/IP network.
If packet delay variation alarm occurs, the PDV Function LED on the front panel will go from off (normal status) to flashing green, indicating an abnormally high packet delay variation. When the PDV Function flashes, this will cause the red alarm LED on its left to turn on as well. Once new data packets have filled the buffer again, the PDV Function LED will stop flashing and turn off, indicating a return to normal operation.
These at-a-glance troubleshooting features quickly alert users to an issue with the buffer and a potential fault in the network, after which they can check the buffer settings for errors and investigate the network.
The photo below (of the TC3846-6) shows an example of the general location of the PDV and alarm LEDs on the front panel:
Watch our video for a visual representation of this feature:
To stay current on our other JumboSwitch product updates, follow the links below.
Product Updates: