Stratum-1 Server Configuration for High-Accuracy Time Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current time synchronization methods, such as Network Timing Protocol (NTP), fail to meet the accuracy requirements of high-end computing systems, especially those without access to external time sources or GPS receivers, due to reliance on external time servers and expensive dedicated timing links.
Innovation Solution
A Coordinated Timing Network (CTN) is defined, utilizing a stratum-1 configuration where a single active server provides primary reference time, and an alternate server can take over in case of failure, allowing synchronization without external time sources and reducing dependency on expensive infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If NTP is used for time synchronization, then time synchronization is provided, but accuracy requirements of high-end systems are not met
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the timer system with dedicated timing links) between the external time source and the computing systems. This intermediary provides filtered and stabilized time signals that meet the stringent accuracy requirements of high-end systems, bridging the gap between standard NTP accuracy and the required precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the software-based NTP protocol with a hardware-based timing system using dedicated timing links and specialized timer components. This substitution of mechanical/hardware systems for software protocols achieves the required time synchronization accuracy that software-based NTP cannot provide.
2Measurement precision
If GPS receivers or external time servers are attached to each system, then time synchronization accuracy is achieved, but maintenance, security and reliability problems arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the time synchronization function into the existing network infrastructure by using dedicated timing links that are integrated into the system's communication architecture. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate GPS receivers or external time server attachments on each system, reducing complexity while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The dedicated timing links serve multiple functions: they provide time synchronization, carry timing data between systems, and are integrated into the existing network infrastructure. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated time synchronization hardware on each system.
3Measurement precision
If IBM Sysplex Timer is used for time synchronization, then synchronization accuracy is met, but expensive dedicated timing links and separate external box are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the timer functionality directly into the computing systems themselves rather than requiring separate external timer boxes. The timing links are integrated into the existing network infrastructure, combining multiple functions into unified components that reduce overall system cost and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system serves its own time synchronization needs through internally integrated timer components rather than requiring external dedicated timing hardware. Each system with timer capability can provide timing services to others in the network, eliminating the need for expensive external time server hardware.
4Measurement precision
If external time sources are required for each server, then time synchronization is achieved, but systems without external time source capability cannot synchronize
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach where systems that cannot access external time sources directly can still synchronize by receiving timing information from other systems in the network that do have external time source access. The timing network acts as an intermediary that distributes time information throughout the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables time synchronization by copying timing information from systems with external time source access to systems without such access. The timing data is replicated and distributed throughout the network, allowing all systems to achieve synchronization without each system needing direct external time source capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A timing network is provided that includes a plurality of servers. The servers of the network obtain information used to maintain the servers in time synchronization, thus ensuring the integrity of the servers.