Precision Time Protocol

The Precision Time Protocol (PTP) functionality was introduced in the 7.09.00 firmware release and enables synchronisation of up to 20 devices on a local Ethernet network in <5 ns accuracy. By syncing time to a GNSS receiver, these devices can utilise the stability of the highly accurate atomic clocks from GNSS satellites providing timing accuracy within nanoseconds. 

Autonomous platforms, from vehicles to drones to road trains, require the combination of multiple sensors like cameras, inertial measurement units (IMUs), RADAR and LiDAR to monitor the surrounding environment. Leveraging OEM7 GNSS receivers and SMART7 antennas* from Hexagon | NovAtel for absolute positioning now means these systems can use the built-in PTP functionality to synchronise to the most accurate timing possible without the need for an external clock source or multiple hardwired connections.

Features

• Synchronises up to 20 devices on a local Ethernet network in <5 ns accuracy 
• Built-in functionality to NovAtel’s OEM7 family of receivers and SMART7 antennas*
• Leverages highly accurate atomic clocks from GNSS that are consistently monitored to correct for clock drift 

Benefits

• Ensures the highest level of positioning and timing for autonomous applications that use multiple perception and navigation systems 
• Removes the need for an external clock source for low-SWaP applications 
• Removes the need for manual clock setting across multiple devices 

*Available on OEM7 receivers and SMART7 antennas equipped with Ethernet 

The PTP Icon by the IEEE 1588 website is licenced under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.