Accurate time system – network synchronization

In the field of accurate time synchronization the use of Ethernet network as a common communication medium has increased. The classical distribution of synchronization pulses and time strings via separated, exclusively dedicated wire network is slowly withdrawing.

All devices that should be synchronized have to be connected to a computer network- Ethernet 10/100 Mbit or a faster network. In the network a NTP time server must be accessible, that has its time already very accurately synchronized, usually by means of an embedded GPS receiver. All other devices in the network are synchronized with the server via NTP or SNTP protocol.

Both digital and analogue network clocks and displays are available to display accurate time. Some of them can be powered via Ethernet itself- in accordance with IEEE 802.3af standard (Power over Ethernet).

The NTP time server also enables synchronization of many other »networked« devices, such as devices for electrical substation automation in accordance with IEC61850, telephone exchanges, data recorders, video-cameras, etc.

Apart of that, also devices which form a local computer network: servers, routers, computers, printers can be synchronized by a NTP time server.