Practical considerations in the design and implementation of time synchronization systems using IEEE 1588

Abstract

This article addresses issues with the design and implementation of systems using the IEEE 1588 standard, which provides a new synchronization scheme for next-generation telecommunications networks. With a focus on achieving high accuracy in the real network environments, key features introduced in the new version of the standard and the exact causes and practical handling of time errors are discussed. A prototype Gigabit Ethernet switch based on a model of a combined ordinary clock and a peer-to-peer transparent clock is described to demonstrate how design decisions have been made on the overall architecture and on the functions of building blocks. Because the popularly used synchronization schemes used in legacy TDM network or based on GPS technology have high capital and operating expenses, network operators are searching for a better solution. Recently, IEEE 1588-2008 has been developed to meet the new synchronization requirements in various applications, including telecommunications backhaul networks; this article discusses the meticulous considerations for implementing IEEE 1588-based systems that are robust, cost-effective, and precise in solving the shared synchronized time problem.