Network Analyzer Time-Stamping Precision Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Time-stamping systems for network analyzers lack precision due to the absence of periodic calibration and standardization, which affects the accuracy of time deviation measurement.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that capture messages with standard reference time using the NTP protocol, comparing elapsed time between captured messages to determine the precision of the time-stamping function, allowing for precise measurement without dismantling the equipment, and utilizing a constellation of satellites with atomic clocks for a precise time reference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If periodic calibration is performed on network analyzers, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and operational disruption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The network analyzer performs self-calibration by capturing NTP messages and automatically calculating its own time deviation. The device uses its existing time-stamping function to timestamp captured messages, then compares these timestamps with the reference time from NTP messages to determine its own precision without external intervention or dismantling.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardization method uses the network analyzer's existing time-stamping function (designed for dating network frames) for a new purpose: calibration and precision measurement. The same hardware and software components that normally timestamp traffic are repurposed to perform self-diagnosis and standardization, eliminating the need for separate calibration equipment or procedures.
2Measurement precision
If the equipment is dismantled for calibration, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The network analyzer remains in its normal operational state throughout the calibration process. It continues to capture and timestamp network messages while simultaneously performing the precision measurement, eliminating the need to take the device apart or stop its normal function for calibration purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration process uses already-captured NTP messages and existing time-stamping data to perform the measurement. By utilizing data that is already available during normal operation, the method avoids additional setup steps, equipment assembly/disassembly, or operational interruptions that would complicate the process.
3Productivity
If standardization is performed on multiple equipment items simultaneously, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Each network analyzer independently captures its own NTP messages and performs its own time deviation calculation using its existing time-stamping function. The standardization process is divided into independent parallel tasks for each device, where each analyzer determines its own precision metrics separately, ensuring individual accuracy while enabling simultaneous standardization of multiple devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of measuring temporal drift of an electronic apparatus linked to a network and capable of providing a time-stamp including capturing at least two messages including a gauge reference time circulating around the network, and determining precision of the time-stamping function of the apparatus as a function of the gauge reference time and of a time-stamp provided by the apparatus. The apparatus can be a network analyzer and each message captured includes at least one Ethernet frame including a gauge reference time in accordance with NTP (Network Time Protocol).