Packet Buffer Memory
An essential function of each ANIC adapter is to not lose packets. There are many terms used to describe a network interface that doesn’t lose even a single packet. Common terms include “lossless packet capture,” “line-rate packet capture,” “wire-speed packet capture” or “100% packet capture.” But no matter what you call it, the need and requirement is the same.
Each ANIC adapter relies on adequate buffer memory at the front of the packet pipeline to ensure that bursts of traffic can be smoothly managed and accommodated without packet loss. Accolade engineers must carefully simulate, test and calibrate the amount of buffer memory depending upon the interface speed. Naturally bursts of 100G traffic will more quickly fill up the buffer than 1G.
Each Accolade ANIC adapter port captures 100% of the incoming traffic, irrespective of packet size (i.e. 64 bytes vs. jumbo frames), without dropping a single packet. Furthermore, line-rate packet capture is supported irrespective of which packet processing functions (e.g. packet filtering) are enabled.
For a complete review of all ANIC adapter features please see below.