Abstract
This disclosure presents a method to enhance synchronization accuracy in telecommunications networks employing IEEE-1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP) alongside Synchronous Ethernet (SyncE). The approach addresses the inherent challenges posed by static synchronization source selection methods, particularly the sub-optimal choices resulting from network rerouting or link failures. By systematically embedding hop-count information—the total number of Ethernet Equipment Clocks (EECs) traversed—into Ethernet Synchronization Messaging Channel (ESMC) Protocol Data Units (PDUs), the invention provides downstream devices with real-time visibility into the synchronization path length. Specifically, the previously reserved octet 22 of the ESMC PDU is repurposed as a "cascaded EEC count" field, incrementing sequentially as the synchronization signal traverses each EEC. This mechanism enables downstream EECs to dynamically evaluate and select the optimal SyncE master source based on the shortest synchronization path, significantly reducing accumulated wander and ensuring more resilient and accurate network synchronization.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
"Selecting Best SyncE Source in a Network based on EEC Hop Count", Technical Disclosure Commons, (April 17, 2025)
https://www.tdcommons.org/dpubs_series/8013