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Many modern power system applications require timing that is synchronized to less than a single microsecond. Synchronizing with this accuracy was previously impossible over an Ethernet network, but now it can be done with Precision Time Protocol (PTP). PTP is an Ethernet protocol that enables submicrosecond time synchronization on well-designed Ethernet networks.

SEL recently released a white paper that shows how it’s done. “Best Practices for Implementing PTP in the Power Industry,” by SEL Product Engineer Larry Thoma, demonstrates how to apply PTP to various Ethernet network architectures and how to provide PTP redundancy. By applying best-known practices (such as the use of redundant clocks and a ladder network topology) PTP can reduce or eliminate dedicated cabling, mitigate the loss of timing due to network path failures, and provide scalable timing solutions for everything from small substations to large, multisite applications.

Read the paper to learn best practices for using PTP to achieve the required accuracy for mission-critical power system applications.