HP (Hewlett-Packard) Digital NetRider Network Card User Manual


 
CIRCUIT TIMER Characteristic
6-6 Configuring LAT Characteristics
CIRCUIT TIMER Characteristic
Introduction
The CIRCUIT TIMER characteristic defines the interval at which the access server
sends virtual circuit messages to the LAT service node. This value is important for
balancing fast response time and network utilization against optimal service node
performance.
The circuit timer value ranges from 30 to 200 milliseconds. The default is 80
milliseconds, which is recommended for normal interactive functions.
Changing the CIRCUIT TIMER
To change the circuit timer, use the command shown in the following example:
Local> CHANGE SERVER CIRCUIT TIME
milliseconds
Increasing the CIRCUIT TIMER
As you increase the circuit timer value, the LAT protocol overhead decreases on the
access server, service node, and network. A slower terminal response time, however,
is the trade-off for any increased circuit timer value.
Decreasing the CIRCUIT TIMER
If you reduce the circuit timer value, the access server port buffers are less likely to fill
between virtual circuit messages. If you have a file transfer with no flow control
between a port and a device, a lower circuit timer value can mean fewer data overrun
errors at the port. Therefore, a reduced circuit timer value may enable file transfers to
run at increased speeds.