Configure probes for core switches

Probes on core switches can be configured to monitor input/output traffic, classify frames, and generate pulse signals for external analysis, using either hardware-based probe points or software-defined monitoring tools.Understanding Probe Types and PlacementCore switches can utilize hardware probe points to monitor traffic per port or per traffic class (TC). For example, in CBS switch designs, three types of probe points are commonly used:Probe Point #0: Monitors input traffic per traffic class for each switch port.Probe Point #1: Monitors output traffic per traffic class.Probe Point #2: Can be used for specialized monitoring or aggregated signals. Each probe outputs end-of-frame signals (tvalid & tready & tlast) that can be captured by external devices such as oscilloscopes or logic analyzers. Users can select which probe points to output and configure the pulse width using a pulse generator IP to match the display or analysis requirements .Configuring Pulse GenerationPulse generators allow the conversion of probe signals into arbitrary-width pulses. This is useful for visualizing short frames like TCP ACKs. Configuration typically involves:Setting a mask to select which probe points are active.Defining the pulse width to ensure frames are detectable on external devices.Mapping input probe signals to output pulse signals, often up to 4-bit outputs from multiple probe points .Software-Based Probe ConfigurationFor network monitoring without hardware probes, RPM (Real-time Performance Monitoring) probes can be configured on routers and switches to generate ICMP or timestamp probes:Define a probe owner and test name to create a monitoring instance.Specify destination interfaces, ports, and probe types (IPv4, IPv6, ICMP, or timestamp).Configure probe intervals, counts, and history size to control monitoring frequency and data retention.Use CLI commands to delegate probes and apply filters for targeted monitoring .Best PracticesSelect probe points strategically to cover critical traffic paths and high-priority TCs.Adjust pulse width to ensure accurate detection of short frames.Limit probe output to avoid overwhelming external monitoring devices.Integrate with network management systems for automated collection and analysis.Document probe configuration for maintenance and troubleshooting. By combining hardware probe points with software-based monitoring, network administrators can achieve comprehensive visibility into core switch traffic, performance, and endpoint behavior, enabling proactive network management and troubleshooting .