The Network Computer as Precision Timekeeper

David L. Mills

Abstract: This paper describes algorithms to discipline a computer clock lo a source of standard time, such as a GPS receiver or another computer synchronized to such a source. The algorithms are designed for use in the Network Time Protocol (NTP), which is used to synchronize computer clocks in the global Internet. They have been incorporated in the NTP software for Unix and Windows and, for the highest accuracy, in the operating system kernels for Sun, DEC, and HP workstations. Rms errors on LANs are usually less than 10 p and on global internet paths usually less than 5 ms. However, rare disruptions of one kind or another can cause error spikes up to 100 p on LANs and 100 ms on Internet paths.
Published in: Proceedings of the 28th Annual Precise Time and Time Interval Systems and Applications Meeting
December 3 - 5, 1996
Hyatt Regency Reston Town Center
Reston, Virginia
Pages: 97 - 108
Cite this article: Mills, David L., "The Network Computer as Precision Timekeeper," Proceedings of the 28th Annual Precise Time and Time Interval Systems and Applications Meeting, Reston, Virginia, December 1996, pp. 97-108.
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