GPS Timing

GPS Timing is a technology that uses signals from Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites to provide highly accurate and synchronized time references, typically with nanosecond to microsecond precision. It enables precise time synchronization across distributed systems, networks, and devices by leveraging the atomic clocks onboard GPS satellites. This is critical for applications requiring coordinated timing, such as telecommunications, financial trading, scientific research, and industrial automation.

Also known as: GPS Time Synchronization, GPS Clock, Satellite Timing, GNSS Timing, Global Positioning System Timing

Why learn GPS Timing?

Developers should learn about GPS Timing when building systems that require precise time synchronization across geographically dispersed locations, such as in telecommunications networks for 5G or IoT deployments, financial systems for timestamping transactions, or distributed computing environments. It is essential for ensuring data consistency, event ordering, and regulatory compliance in time-sensitive applications where local system clocks may drift or lack sufficient accuracy.

Learning Resources

• docs: GPS.gov: Timing
• video: Introduction to GPS Timing on Time and Navigation
• tutorial: GPS Timing Tutorial by Microsemi
• course: GPS for Time and Frequency Transfer on Coursera
• book: Handbook of GPS Timing Applications