Timing subsystem development
Kevin Backe · 1982
Abstract : In the predominately digital DCS, a requirement exists to coordinate clocks at geographically distinct nodes to handle switched digital traffic and provide a general system timing capability. Aside from the characteristics of the clocks, medium, and link equipment, the synchronization technique itself is an important aspect in considering overall network performance. This document presents the findings of a program in which three experimental timing subsystem prototypes were designed, fabricated and field tested in a small network of troposcatter and microwave communications links. The purpose of this effort was to implement and evaluate the performance of each of five candidate timing techniques in a network environment. These candidates are: Independent Clocks, Master/Slave, Mutual Synchronization, Time Reference Distribution, and Improved Time Reference Distribution. This report includes discussions of the timing subsystem, measurement plan, and evaluation of the capabilities and performance characteristics of the candidate clock disciplining methods. Recommendations are presented based on the findings of the field tests and an evaluation of the design of both hardware and software portions of the timing subsystem prototype. (Author)