Abstract: Systems, device and methods are provided for determining a reference clock frequency for use by a multi-protocol analyzer in connection with a multi-protocol communications system. Initially, the clock frequencies for each of the links in the multi-protocol communications system are determined. The link clock frequencies are then used as a basis for determining the frequency of the reference clock. While the reference clock frequency is based upon the link clock frequencies, the reference clock frequency is different from each of the reference clock frequencies.

Abstract: Presently preferred embodiments of the current invention are directed to a protocol analyzer for interpreting data frames captured on a communications network. The protocol analyzer includes a network interface connection for providing the electrical and physical connection to the communications network and for receiving data frames from the network in a particular physical layer protocol format. The protocol analyzer further includes analysis software for providing an interpretation of received data frames. The interpretation of a frame is based upon a series of definition constructs that are stored in a protocol definition file and a protocol database of the protocol analyzer. The definition constructs collectively define the characteristics of a data frame for a given physical layer protocol. Also, the constructs provide a means for identifying any one of a number of higher level protocols that may be embedded within the data frame.