Communication Node Clock Synchronization for Distributed Antenna Systems
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication systems face challenges in generating and synchronizing multiple system clock signals for distributed antenna systems, particularly in areas with high traffic concentration or shadow areas, where base transceiver station signals are difficult to reach.
Innovation Solution
A communication system that generates multiple system clock signals using an external clock source and transmits them to small cells, enabling synchronization of communication signals between end communication nodes and small cells, with the physical layer utilizing synchronous Ethernet standards for clock signal transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple system clock signals are generated for distributed antenna systems, then synchronization precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the clock signal generation into multiple dedicated clock generators (first clock generator for RF signals, second clock generator for Ethernet/IP data) within the communication node. Each generator produces clock signals optimized for specific signal types, thereby achieving precise synchronization for different communication functions while organizing complexity through functional segmentation rather than monolithic design
Solution Approach 2:
The communication node integrates multiple clock generators and distribution mechanisms that serve multiple functions: the first clock generator handles RF signal synchronization, the second clock generator handles Ethernet/IP data synchronization, and both can be distributed to small cells. This multi-functionality allows a single communication node to manage diverse synchronization requirements without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function
2Reliability
If clock synchronization is implemented in shadow areas, then communication reliability is improved, but signal strength decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary clock synchronization at the communication node before signals are transmitted to small cells in shadow areas. By pre-synchronizing the clock signals using dedicated clock generators and distributing them through the network infrastructure, the system ensures that synchronization is established in advance, maintaining communication reliability even when transmitted signals experience attenuation in shadow areas
Solution Approach 2:
The communication node acts as an intermediary that receives external clock signals, processes them through dedicated clock generators, and distributes synchronized clock signals to multiple small cells. This intermediary function allows the system to maintain synchronization reliability across shadow areas by mediating the clock distribution through infrastructure that is less affected by radio signal propagation issues
3Measurement precision
If synchronous Ethernet standard is used for clock signal transmission, then synchronization precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies synchronous Ethernet standard specifically to the second clock generator that handles Ethernet/IP data transmission. By localizing the application of this precision standard to where it is most needed (Ethernet data path) rather than applying it universally to all clock generation functions, the system achieves high synchronization precision for data communications while limiting the complexity increase to only the necessary components
Data Source
AI summary
A communication system comprises a clock generator configured to generate a plurality of system clock signals used to synchronize components included in each of communication nodes in the communication system based on an external clock signal provided by an external clock source located outside the communication system and a physical layer configured to transmit any one of the generated system clock signals to a small cell communicatively connected to an end communication node of the communication system.