Satellite Signal Propagation Delay Test Device for 5G RAN Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current practices in 5G RANs fail to accurately account for propagation delays in GNSS signals, leading to reduced timing precision and potential interference in ultra-low latency applications such as IoT and autonomous vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A test device is used to determine unknown propagation delays in the GNSS signal distribution system by comparing 1PPS signals generated from both the DUT and a reference GSDS, allowing for the programming of a configurable delay offset in Grandmaster clocks to enhance timing accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If propagation delays in GNSS signal distribution system are not accurately measured and compensated, then device complexity remains low and ease of operation is maintained, but timing precision deteriorates leading to timing errors in ultra-low latency applications
Solution Approach 1:
A test device is introduced as an intermediary between the GNSS signal distribution system and the Grandmaster clock. This test device measures propagation delays through the distribution system and enables compensation by providing delay offset values to the Grandmaster clock, thereby achieving high timing precision without requiring complex modifications to the existing system components
Solution Approach 2:
The system compensates for propagation delays by adjusting the timing parameters of the Grandmaster clock. Specifically, delay offset values are programmed into the Grandmaster clock to compensate for measured propagation delays in the GNSS signal distribution system, allowing the system to achieve accurate timing without physical modifications to the signal path
2Measurement precision
If propagation delays are not compensated, then device complexity remains low, but timing accuracy deteriorates causing interference in ultra-low latency applications
Solution Approach 1:
The test device measures the actual propagation delays in the GNSS signal distribution system and feeds back this information to the Grandmaster clock in the form of delay offset values. This feedback mechanism allows the system to continuously compensate for propagation delays, ensuring high timing accuracy and reliability for ultra-low latency applications such as IoT and autonomous vehicles
Data Source
AI summary
A test device determines a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signal propagation delay in a GNSS signal distribution system (GSDS) for a radio access network. The test device includes a GNSS receiver. The GNSS receiver is connected at different times to a reference GSDS with a known signal propagation delay and to a device under test (DUT), including a second GSDS having an unknown signal propagation delay. One pulse per second (1PPS) signals are generated by the GNSS receiver and are compared to determine the unknown