Joint time and frequency dissemination network over delay-stabilized fiber optic links

TL;DR

This paper presents a fiber-optic network scheme for simultaneous, stable time and frequency distribution to multiple users, achieving high precision and stability over long distances without disrupting other sites.

Contribution

It introduces a novel tree-like fiber network topology for joint time and frequency dissemination that allows online access without interference.

Findings

Relative stability of 5E-14@1s and 2E-17@10000s

Time synchronization precision less than 80 ps

Successful long-distance implementation over 50 km fiber links

Abstract

A precise fiber-based time and frequency dissemination scheme for multiple users with a tree-like branching topology is proposed. Through this scheme, ultra-stable signals can be easily accessed online anywhere along the fiber without affecting other sites. The scheme is tested through an experiment, in which a modulated frequency signal and a synchronized time signal are transferred to multiple remote sites over a delay-stabilized fiber optic links that are over 50 km long. Results show that the relative stabilities are 5E-14@1s and 2E-17@10000s. Meanwhile, compared with each site, time synchronization precision is less than 80 ps. These results can pave the way to practical applications in joint time and frequency dissemination network systems.