How to Validate Ethernet Interconnects in Data Centers

+ High-Speed Ethernet Interconnect Validation

Maximizing throughput for high-speed 800GE / 1.6T interconnects

Validating high-speed Ethernet interconnects in a data center requires several critical steps and instruments. Key measurements include bit error ratio (BER), frame loss ratio (FLR), and optical power monitoring. Essential instruments for these tests are bit error rate testers (BERTs), optical power meters, and traffic generators. Furthermore, network emulation software, test automation software, Ethernet traffic analysis tools, and physical layer testing tools are necessary to ensure comprehensive validation. These tools help verify transceiver information, conduct error ratio tests, and ensure compliance with industry standards.

The validation process begins with verifying transceiver information and performing error ratio tests using pseudorandom binary sequences (PRBS). Forward error correction (FEC) testing is conducted to ensure data reliability, followed by Ethernet traffic testing to validate performance under real-world conditions. Additional tests for link stability, auto-negotiation, and link training are performed to ensure robust and reliable interconnects. This comprehensive approach helps identify network bottlenecks and other potential issues early in the development life cycle, ensuring optimal performance and resilience in data center environments.

High-speed Ethernet interconnect validation solution

The Keysight Interconnect and Network Performance Tester 1600GE is a versatile high-speed Ethernet platform that supports Layer 1 through Layer 3 testing and is available in a portable, lightweight, office-quiet benchtop or rackmount chassis. This solution validates performance and reliability from 200GE to 1600GE in a range of Ethernet devices and interconnects, ensuring reliable data transmission in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and high-performance computing (HPC) networks.

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