Network Time Protocol
Automatic Date/Time Updates
When using server play-lists in broadcast applications, an accurate record is often needed of what was played and when. The server’s As-Run logging feature creates such a record, time stamping each played clip using the machine’s internal date/time clock. Very accurate time stamping can be achieved by synchronizing the server’s clock to an external time base that is referenced to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
This is accomplished using the Network Time Protocol (NTP) to interrogate time servers through a network connection. A time server could be an in-house computer that is equipped with a GPS receiver, or a radio receiver locked to signals from the NIST radio station WWV. Alternatively, public time servers may be used which are accessible through an Internet connection.
Connecting to the Network
To obtain automatic date/time updates from the public time servers on the Internet, you will need to provide the server with Internet access. Generally, servers would be connected on a secure high-speed local area network, with any Internet connection going through a router with an integrated firewall. The Network Time Protocol uses TCP/IP port number 123, so be sure the firewall is configured to allow access to this port per Figure 30.
Figure 30 - NTP Network Block Diagram
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