Timing Subsystem Development - Network Synchronization Experiments

Abstract

In the predominantly digital Defense Communication System (DCS), a requirement exists to coordinate clocks at geographically distinct nodes to handle switched digital traffic and provide a general timing capability. The characteristics of the nodal clocks, link equipment delay/phase relationships, transmission medium, and synchronization technique all affect system performance and must be considered when attempting network-wide clock alignment. This paper describes a program in which several experimental timing subsystem prototypes were designed, fabricated, and field tested using a small network of troposcatter and microwave digital communication links. This equipment was responsible for modem/radio interfacing, time interval measurement, clock adjustment and distribution, synchronization technique, and node-to-node- information exchange. Presented are discussions of the design approach, measurement plan, and performance assessment methods. Recommendations are made based on the findings of the test program and an evaluation of the design of both the hardware and software elements of the timing subsystem prototypes.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1982
Accession Number
ADA497113

Entities

People

  • K. R. Backe

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Central Processing Units
  • Clocks
  • Communication Systems
  • Computer Programs
  • Computers
  • Digital Communications
  • Intervals
  • Loran
  • Measurement
  • Microprocessors
  • Processing Equipment
  • Prototypes
  • Software Development
  • Standards
  • Terminals
  • Test And Evaluation
  • Time Intervals

Fields of Study

  • Computer science

Readers

  • Computer Networking
  • Electronics Engineering
  • Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) Technology.