The impact of network latency on the synchronization of real-world IEEE 1588-2008 devices

Abstract

Precision Time Protocol (PTP) is a high precision time synchronization protocol designed to run over a local area network. PTP, often referred to as 1588, is defined by the IEEE Standard 1588TM-2008. The protocol theoretically allows synchronization at the nanosecond level. In this project we study the performance of the protocol in an environment where multiple 1588 devices are connected via a network in which impairments that are typically observed in real networks are introduced and non-1588 devices are present. The performance was assessed by observing the impact on the clock synchronization of the 1588 devices. The results provide valuable insight into the real-world accuracy and robustness of the protocol.