The throughput test defines the maximum number of frames per second that can be transmitted without any error. This test is done to measure the rate-limiting capability of an Ethernet switch as found in carrier Ethernet services. The methodology involves starting at a maximum frame rate and then comparing the number of transmitted and received frames. Should frame loss occur, the transmission rate is divided by two and the test is restarted. If during this trial there is no frame loss, then the transmission rate is increased by half of the difference from the previous trial. This methodology is known as the half/doubling method. This trial-and-error methodology is repeated until the rate at which there is no frame loss is found.
The throughput test must be performed for each frame size. Although the test time during which frames are transmitted can be short, it must be at least 60 seconds for the final validation. Each throughput test result must then be recorded in a report, using frames per second (f/s or fps) or bits per second (bit/s or bps) as the measurement unit.