Developments in network based synchronization for improving computer based measurements

Time-sensitive networks (TSN) in Ethernet are improving computer-based measurements from sub-microsecond to sub-nanosecond precision. By using message-based protocols that synchronize clocks, it is possible to generate this required precision signaling locally. This solution is scalable from within the same node to multiple nodes throughout the world. To fulfill the more demanding needs of test and measurement applications, IEEE 1588 has been developed, which is able to provide sub-microsecond performance. Many of the research activities concerning IEEE 1588 have been targeted at Ethernet. Already, CERN is able to achieve sub-ns synchronization in the timing, trigger, and control system for the Large Hadron Collider, the biggest machine in the world based on Ethernet. This is an example of what TSN and standards such as IEEE 1588 and IEEE 802.1 will be bringing to COTS Ethernet.