17956721. SYSTEM AND METHOD TO MAINTAIN CLOCK STABILITY IN A COMPLEX COMPUTING PLATFORM simplified abstract (Dell Products L.P.)

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SYSTEM AND METHOD TO MAINTAIN CLOCK STABILITY IN A COMPLEX COMPUTING PLATFORM

Organization Name

Dell Products L.P.

Inventor(s)

JASON CHRISTOPHER Rock of Austin TX (US)

JONATHAN FOSTER Lewis of Round Rock TX (US)

SYSTEM AND METHOD TO MAINTAIN CLOCK STABILITY IN A COMPLEX COMPUTING PLATFORM - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 17956721 titled 'SYSTEM AND METHOD TO MAINTAIN CLOCK STABILITY IN A COMPLEX COMPUTING PLATFORM

Simplified Explanation

The patent application describes methods and systems for performing timekeeping by a data processing system, including using an oscillator impacted by temperature for timekeeping and performing cooperative timekeeping synchronization with other devices when communicating, and independent timekeeping synchronization when not communicating.

  • Oscillator-based timekeeping system
  • Temperature impact on oscillator signals
  • Cooperative timekeeping synchronization with other devices
  • Independent timekeeping synchronization
  • Attempting to thermally stabilize the oscillator

Potential Applications

The technology described in the patent application could be applied in various fields such as:

  • Computer systems
  • Communication devices
  • Industrial automation
  • Aerospace systems

Problems Solved

The technology addresses several issues, including:

  • Ensuring accurate timekeeping in data processing systems
  • Synchronizing timekeeping with other devices
  • Compensating for temperature effects on oscillator signals

Benefits

The benefits of this technology include:

  • Improved accuracy in timekeeping
  • Enhanced synchronization capabilities
  • Increased reliability in data processing systems

Potential Commercial Applications

The technology could have commercial applications in:

  • Electronic devices
  • Telecommunication systems
  • Network infrastructure
  • IoT devices

Possible Prior Art

One possible prior art related to this technology is the use of temperature-compensated crystal oscillators (TCXOs) in electronic devices to maintain accurate timekeeping.

Unanswered Questions

How does the technology handle power fluctuations that may affect the oscillator's performance?

The patent application does not specify how the system deals with power fluctuations that could impact the oscillator's signals. This aspect could be crucial for ensuring consistent timekeeping accuracy.

What measures are in place to prevent data loss during cooperative timekeeping synchronization with other devices?

The patent application does not detail any specific measures to prevent data loss during cooperative timekeeping synchronization. Implementing robust data transfer protocols could be essential to avoid potential data loss issues.


Original Abstract Submitted

Methods and systems for performing timekeeping by a data processing system are disclosed. To perform timekeeping, the data processing system may include an oscillator that provides signals upon which time keeping is based. The signal provided by the oscillator may be impacted by the temperature of the oscillator. During periods of time when the data processing system may communicate with other devices, the data processing system may perform cooperative timekeeping synchronization through exchange of data with the other devices. During periods of time when the data processing system may not perform cooperative timekeeping synchronization, the data processing system may perform independent timekeeping synchronization by attempting to thermally stabilize the oscillator.