Distributing time by fibre. Issue 1 (2nd January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: English, Elizabeth Laier; Ashkhasi, Ali; Whibberley, Peter
• Is Part Of: Contemporary physics. Volume 62:Issue 1(2021)
• Page Start: 24
• Page End: 38
• Publication Date: 2021-01-02
• Subjects: Time -- optical fibre -- timestamping; Physics -- Periodicals; 530
• DOI: 10.1080/00107514.2021.1963543
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0010-7514

Abstract

Abstract : Precise time underpins critical infrastructure in modern society, including telecommunications, computer networks, electrical power grids and broadcasting. At present, Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) provide the timing signals that are used by these applications; however, time signals delivered over fibre links can offer higher performance. The high accuracy time transfer achievable by fibre is important for synchronising clocks in high-end scientific research projects such as particle accelerators and radio telescope arrays. In addition, distributing time over an optical fibre directly from a timing institute can provide resiliency, accuracy and traceability to the international time scale Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). These are key requirements for timing in industry and commerce, and in applications such as the timestamping of financial trades, fibre distribution offers a secure alternative to time from GNSS. This article will present techniques for distributing time by fibre that are commercially available and widely used for applications in industry, science and metrology.