(Almost) No Cost Clock Synchronization
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Author
Babaoglu, Ozalp
Drummond, Rogerio
Abstract
We show how synchronized clocks can be realized in a distributed system as a byproduct of a common communication paradigm where processors periodically perform broadcasts. Our approach decouples the precision concern-limiting how much correct clocks can differ from each other-and the accuracy concern-limiting how much any correct clock can differ from real time-of clock synchronization. Given a system that guarantees only precision, we develop a protocol whereby high accuracy can be achieved on demand. In this manner, the "lazy" protocol we obtain incurs the cost of high accuracy only when needed while keeping the basic synchronization procedure extremely simple and cheap.
Date Issued
1986-12
Publisher
Cornell University
Keywords
Previously Published as
http://techreports.library.cornell.edu:8081/Dienst/UI/1.0/Display/cul.cs/TR86-791
Type
technical report