Abstract
Accurate and precise timekeeping between computers in a distributed survey system is essential to ensure adequate data quality, especially with Multibeam Echosounders (MBES) which can otherwise suffer from significant motion artefacts. We show that clock synchronisation on the order of 100-150ns (rms) is readily achievable in a modern MBES-based survey system utilising an Ethernet-based time synchronisation mechanism and some custom timekeeping software. We also show that improving the timekeeping eliminates motion artefacts in the observed bathymetry, and simplifies the patch-test procedure.
Department
Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping
Publication Date
4-2008
Volume
9, No. 1 April 2008
Journal Title
International Hydrographic Review
Pages
9-24
Publisher Place
Lemmers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Publisher
International Hydrographic Organization
Document Type
Journal Article
Recommended Citation
Calder, Brian R.; Brennan, Rick; Marcus, J; Malzone, C; and Canter, Peter, "High-precision, High-accuracy Timekeeping in Distributed Survey Systems" (2008). International Hydrographic Review. 463.
https://scholars.unh.edu/ccom/463