PacketCalc 2020.11(27)

The PacketCalc tool aims to provide engineers with a reliable means of analyzing network packet sizes and throughput calculations. It addresses common questions such as determining payload capacity within specific frame sizes, estimating upload durations for files over various network configurations, and calculating maximum achievable throughput given particular network parameters and limitations.

For example, it can compute the payload a 128-byte Ethernet frame carries, estimate upload times for large files over VPN connections constrained to 512-byte packets, and evaluate maximum throughput in complex fabric deployments featuring high-speed IPv6 networks with VXLAN encapsulation and MTU considerations.

Its feature set encompasses support for multiple protocols, including VXLAN, 802.1Q, IPv4, IPv6, TCP, UDP, as well as custom protocols. The application allows for simulation of traffic signatures via customizable payloads and offers comprehensive options for frame sizes—covering all RFC2544 standards, jumbo frames, and Wi-Fi sizes. Users can configure parameters such as frame duration, throughput percentage, overhead, load, duration, inter-frame gaps (IFG) with standard and IEEE minimum options, MTU settings (adjustable or fixed), line rate adjustments across popular Ethernet speeds, and frame rate measurements.

The application facilitates exporting internal data to various formats—including plain text, JSON, and Soulver—through the iOS Share Sheet. Inline help is accessible by tapping on any UI value, and quick copying or exporting functionalities are available via double-tap or long-press gestures on UI elements. Additionally, the help section provides detailed guidance.

Designed with a focus on usability and accessibility, PacketCalc supports iOS dark and light modes, multi-window and split view on iPad devices (including Apple Silicon Macs), keyboard shortcuts for enhanced navigation, dynamic font size adjustments based on system settings, and context-sensitive display of protocol-related options. The application is built entirely using Swift and SwiftUI frameworks and was developed with an emphasis on intuitive interaction and robust performance.