Precision Timing.

Key features

Product description

Embedded Precision Timing
Nowadays, virtually all devices have a notion of time. In computer networks, individual timekeeping is synchronized regularly and automatically using for instance an internet-connected NTP server (Network Time Protocol). With NTP, milli-seconds accuracy can be achieved. However, an increasing number of systems require more accuracy, expressing the synchronization resolution in pico-second (~10^-12 seconds). Achieving this level of accuracy is quite a challenge, especially when computer systems collaborate in a networked environment. This set-up combined with individual clock accuracy requirements that transcend micro-seconds (< 10^-6) is called Precision Timing.

 An introduction in Precision timing can be found by following this link: https://topic.nl/en/news/embed....

How to benefit from Precision Timing
Traditionally, systems are synchronized by distributing a triggering or sync signal: systems are wired together, and an electrical pulse is distributed to initiate the operation. All sorts of well-known issues arise, which scale with the number of clocking points, cable lengths, fanout, etc. Using a precision timing solution such as White Rabbit, you achieve:

• Increased accuracy: By using Precision Timing via a network connection, the clocks of the system are synchronized within the desired accuracy range. Instead of having to wire a trigger physically, the trigger moment is programmed as a timer event relative to the real-time time clock.

• Simplified board design: Another benefit of the WR solution is the simplified board design and wiring interconnections. Although WR is specified by the IEEE 1588 standard as a software protocol it requires specific electrical circuitry to achieve the desired clock accuracy. But the complexity and layout of the circuitry are less critical than implementing a complete clock distribution tree.

For more in-depth background information about White Rabbit based precision timing check our latest White Paper here: https://topic.nl/en/news/white....

Precision Timing solutions by TOPIC
TOPIC provides solutions for off-the-shelve White Rabbit implementations in a variety of ways. As a SOM manufacturer, the basic functionality for precisions timing is available on the SOM. Depending on your application accuracy and precision needs, you can use the infrastructure on the SOM or integrate an additional circuit with limited components to your carrier board, enabling hassle-free White Rabbit functionality. Next to that, a Baby White Rabbit board is designed in collaboration with Nikhef to add precision timing to your application as a cost-effective module feature in the form of a M2 module. The applied FPGA on that board is open for users to add optional/additional features, like a JESD204b interface for seamless integration with an AD converter.

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