What is the difference between frames and packets and how does that relate to VIAVI TestCenter?

What is the difference between frames and packets and how does that relate to VIAVI TestCenter?

Frames versus packets The terms "frames" and "packets" are often used interchangeably. Technically a frame refers to a layer two data package and packet refers to a layer 3 data package. Since an Ethernet frame carries a single *IP packet using either description is really the same (as long as what you are counting is indeed just how many “packages” were sent and received, as opposed to counting bit and bytes). * If somebody says IP datagram that is a special case where they are only referring to the IP package (IP header + data). And if counting bit and bytes only that portion should be considered. How does this relate to VIAVI TestCenter? From the Results perspective consider the following graphic:   • Tx Count (Frames)  - would be the same for both. In other words, it could be Tx Count (Frames/Packets) • Tx L1 Count (bits) - also includes 20 bytes for the min IFG and preamble (12 + 8 bytes respectively) • Tx Count (bits) - count the Ethernet Frame Bits including the Ethernet header/trailer, VLAN bits if present, and everything encapsulated (most often the IP header + data). It does not include the min IFG and preamble. From a Transmit Load perspective consider the following graphic: • Tx Count (Frames) are represented as “Frames/sec (fps)” and would also be the same for both even though it says “Frames” not “Packets”. • Tx L1 Count (bits) are represented as “bps, Kbps, or Mbps” and also includes 20 bytes for the min IFG and preamble (12 + 8 bytes respectively) • Tx Count (bits) are represented as “L2 Rate (bps)” and also includes the Ethernet Frame Bits including the Ethernet header/trailer, VLAN bits if present, and everything encapsulated (most often the IP header + data).  At least in this case, as opposed to the results, it is labeled with “L2”.  Likewise, it does not include the min IFG and preamble.