The LBM packet is often compared to a ping. A MEP transmits the LBM packet. This packet can be addressed to another MEP or to the MAC address of the MP; in the case of SPBM, this is the SPBM system ID or its virtual SMLT MAC. Only the MP for which the packet is addressed responds with an LBR message.
Provides “ICMP ping like” functionality natively at Layer-2.
DA is the MAC address of the target.
Includes a transaction identifier that allows the corresponding LBR to be identified when more than one LBM request is waiting for a response.
Bridges forward the frame using the normal FDB rules.
Only the target (MIP or MEP) responds.
Initiator can choose the size and contents data portion of the LBM frame.
Can be used to check the ability of the network to forward different sized frames.