PTP Deployment in Large Networks – Traps and Pitfalls

The IEEE 1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP) is a proven method to distribute highly accurate time information over Ethernet networks allowing devices to synchronize their clock to a common time source to less than 100ns. Deploying and operating PTP in large networks with a high number of PTP nodes with differing demands for synchronization accuracy requires detailed planning of the network topology itself. If the network infrastructure is shared with other applications, especially those with considerable bandwidth demands, the PTP performance will be impacted. PTP precision relies on the optimal configuration of all network devices as well as the appropriate settings of all relevant PTP parameters. The principles for designing and configuring large broadcasting networks are described together with PTP performance optimization techniques. The benefits and efficient use of PTP enabled network devices are covered as well. For typical network topologies, measurement results show the effect of individual optimization tasks.

Published

2014-10

Content type

Original Research

Keywords

1588, PTP, large networks, IP

DOI

10.5594/M001547

ISBN

978-1-61482-954-6