Optimizing Large Media Networks for Highly Accurate Time Transfer via PTP

In all-IP studio environments synchronization is provided via the Precision Time Protocol (PTP) replacing legacy technologies like genlock. PTP profiles such as SMPTE ST 2059 or AES 67 deliver optimal performance when operated in fully PTP-aware networks. To avoid costly reinvestments existing state-of-the-art network infrastructure should be retained whenever possible, adding PTP devices only at critical locations in the network. For a set of topologies typically found in large media networks synchronization quality is measured both with respect to accuracy and lock time. The presented measurements are performed in presence of a varying amount of media traffic. Subsequently, the networks are enhanced by exchanging single components with PTP aware devices at distinct locations carrying out the identical measurements. Configurations with PTP aware components located at the edge of the network are compared with topologies where PTP aware components reside in the core providing guidelines for optimizing existing networks for PTP

Published

2015-10

Content type

Original Research

Keywords

1588, PTP, mixed networks, IP, ST 2059

DOI

10.5594/M001636

ISBN

978-1-61482-956-0