Chronos - FORGE - 4G Packet Metrics

Precision Time Protocol (PTP) is being adopted within the telecoms industry for distributing
time and synchronisation across and within Ethernet networks. The main Telecom Standards’
bodies, ITU and IEEE, have been working towards agreeing metrics to ensure that PTP (also
known as 1588v2) can be easily deployed and supported in operational networks. The ITU
has now standardised on a packet metric known as Floor Packet Percentage (FPP).
The industry, however, has little experience in the implementation of FPP. Three very
different algorithms can be employed which can give different results depending on the exact
situation. The result is that the performance of any given application could be seriously
compromised should the wrong method be adopted. This could have a profound impact on the
successful implementation of, for example, future 4G services.
FORGE is a project designed to address this issue through the provision of a test and analysis
vehicle. It will enable application developers to evaluate the various options for FPP in situ,
thereby enabling optimum implementation of an FPP based packet metric.
The market for such a product is global and is not restricted to telecoms. Accurate time and
timing is essential for fixed and mobile telecommunications, power generation and
transmission, financial trading, transportation, legal, broadcasting and many military uses.
Commercial exploitation will result in significant incremental business with the positive
impact this will have on the local and national economy.