A Guide To Understand The Concept And Uses Of Master Clock

A Guide To Understand The Concept And Uses Of Master Clock

Clocks and time synchronization setups are particularly significant for various ethernet and telecommunication devices. For anyone having zero knowledge of telecommunication and networking devices, a clock holds a distinct meaning and significance. While the ultimate motive of using a clock in the servers and devices may be similar to that of the watches, the technicalities vary at large. Thus, master clocks require a different definition that helps people recognize how it is distinct from the regular watches and clocks in their houses.

What is a master clock?

Master clock is an electric-based device that allows time synchronization. It is the master for monitoring the other slave clocks present in a setup. The time synchronization signals sent by the master clock to the connected slave clocks bring parity in functioning in a network. The primary function of a master clock is to maintain accurate time that gets sourced from a hardware clock. The hardware source clock may be GPS, GLONASS, etc.

A master clock system

The precision clock helps in setting up and monitoring a clock network. In the current times, the master clock serves as a time reference to the network of clocks. It determines the accuracy of synchronization for the slave clock connected to it. The simple low-cost slave clocks get connected to the high-precision clock to create a complex master clock network. The setup or network is useful for several applications whether time plays an admin part or needs to get legally traced.

Accuracy of the clock – What makes a clock accurate and turns it into a master clock? A master clock also requires a reliable source to set its precision. Different time references can get connected to the master clock and thus synchronize it accurately. Global satellite and navigation systems, radio time and radiofrequency, and internet time references make it accurate.

What is NTP?

While you discuss the nitty-gritty of a master clock, you cannot omit the significance of NTP. NTP stands for network time protocol. It is a standard networking protocol that acts as a timekeeping system. The NTP servers connect to other systems and provide accurate information from the UTC or coordinated universal time. The server sends the response from UTC corresponding to individual requests. The NTP server teamed with the master clock enables secured and accurate telecommunication that helps immensely in critical communication channels.

Functions of the master clock

Modern computers feature a distributed system that creates a network that requires communication. The master clock helps in synchronizing it. Time synchronization is essential to ensure that each event maintains a precise order, determined by the time reference set in the master clock.

Accuracy and time reference – Several internet time-references can be a source for the master clock. Some are even free of charge, but that gives room for drawbacks and flaws. A minor delay can ruin the whole clock setup and make the communication channel unsafe. For this, a master clock has to source the time reference from a globally accepted source.

GPS and multi-GNSS master clock

The Global Navigation Satellite Systems or GNSS provides information related to positioning and navigation. Systems like GNSS and GPS use satellite information having optimal accuracy and worldwide reception. When a master clock gets equipped with the GPS, the accuracy improves. A GPS master clock gets reliable signals. In fact, master clocks can also get configured with multiple time references for better output.

Network synchronization and master clock

Master clocks provide accuracy to connected slave clocks through the modern-day arrangement of Ethernet links. Earlier there were requirements for cable and pulse generators, which are no longer in use. The distinct internet protocols help in linking. The NTP or SNTP servers can easily connect the master clock to the slave clocks without any distortions in the accuracy of signals.

Applications of the master clock

Master clocks have different applications based on the time reference source. The GPS master clocks are common nowadays with multiple uses in telecommunication and security setups. Broadcast systems require the master clocks to maintain accuracy in transmission timings. Military systems with radar and telecommunication devices also need a master clock to ensure accuracy. There is also a use for the modern master clocks in high-frequency financial trading and air traffic controlling setups.

Evaluating points to choose the master clock

Before employing a master clock with a time reference or setting up a clock system with several slave clocks, you have to determine certain factors. The factors include – compatibility, accuracy, and communication security. The master clock in use should be compatible with base model servers and IPv4/IPv6 networks. High-level encryption and authentication help find the optimal output for which the master clock has been employed.

Concluding note

Install master clocks in a clock setup to ensure accuracy and better synchronization. Find a brand that develops high-quality master clocks that do not feature any flaws when it comes to frequency and time synchronization.