Precision timing in ocean sensor systems

Abstract

This paper discusses the use of the IEEE 1588 standard in ocean observatories. The performance result of prototype implementations of this standard in an Ethernet Marine Sensor Network (MSN) is presented. The performance tests emulate an underwater-cabled observatory with a Master Clock synchronized with GPS, located in an on-shore station, and with underwater instruments requiring high-precision PPS (pulse s−1) signals for synchronization purposes. These signals will be provided to the underwater station by an IEEE 1588 GPS Emulator connected to the observatory’s Local Area Network (LAN). The experimental setup emulates the underwater-cabled observatory OBSEA where this technology will be installed due to synchronization requirements of marine instruments such as ocean bottom seismometers.