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Telecommunications and Atomic ClocksBy Richard Romando |
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Telecommunications involves the transmission of information from a sender to a receiver through an electromagnetic or light-wave medium. Data transfer is an important feature in telecommunications operations and it needs accurate timing.
In a telecommunications network, switches directing digital signals have to synchronize with each other, so that the data does not become corrupt or lost. Timely data transfer and synchronization are guaranteed by atomic clocks, which are the best timekeepers. Thus, atomic clock timing is a fundamental component of national and international telecommunications networks.
Atomic clock stability is crucial to the smooth functioning of a mobile network. Without accurate time, there can be no proper functioning of the Internet, mobile phones, and e-mails. The distribution of voice and data around the world via a telecommunications network is very much dependent on accurate timing. Voice and data units are time-stamped to enable the transmitted elements to be rearranged in the correct order at the receiving end. A telecommunications network relies upon atomic clocks to ensure that time-stamped voice, data, and VoIP packets are organized in the correct order.
Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites that orbit the earth send signals in a timely manner from their atomic clocks for the smooth navigation of ships, airplanes, and even cars. GPS is helpful in locating the user's position. With GPS, the timing has to be very accurate, and the smallest error can cause serious navigation problems. This system is of great use in situations such as sea rescue operations and Arctic expeditions. Accurate time maintained in global navigation satellites is used for precision mapping and surveying as well as environmental monitoring of earthquakes. |
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About the Author |
| Atomic Clocks provides detailed information on Atomic Clocks, Atomic Clock Times, Atomic Alarm Clocks, Atomic Wall Clocks and more. Atomic Clocks is affiliated with Printable Calendars. |
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