Why is time and phase synchronization important in large-scale network testing?

In high-performance network testing environments, multiple chassis and appliances must generate and analyze traffic with nanosecond-level precision. Time and phase synchronization ensures that all devices operate on a unified time and frequency reference, enabling accurate packet timestamping, latency measurement, and event correlation. Without synchronization, drift between local clocks can lead to inconsistent results, especially in tests involving Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN), 5G, Synchronous Ethernet (SyncE), and IEEE 1588v2 Precision Time Protocol (PTP). These technologies demand sub-nanosecond timing accuracy, making synchronization essential for reliable validation. Synchronization also enables realistic emulation of distributed networks, allowing engineers to correlate events across multi-rack setups or geographically dispersed sites. By aligning all test elements to a common clock, often derived from Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) or GPS, test repeatability improves, and results better reflect real-world performance under load and timing-sensitive conditions.

What synchronization architectures are typically used in multichassis testbeds?

Keysight metronome timing systems support several synchronization architectures tailored to different testbed scales and layouts: Star Synchronization: A central chassis distributes timing signals to up to 4–5 follower chassis. Ideal for co-located setups with up to 6 devices using 6-foot cables. Metronome Synchronization: A precision timing system that supports up to 8 chassis with distances up to 200 meters between devices. Extenders are used to maintain signal integrity. Metronome-STAR Synchronization: Enables massive scale testing with up to 48 chassis. Combines Metronome and STAR topologies for hierarchical fan-out. Distributed Synchronization: Uses GPS-based timing across multiple Metronome systems to synchronize geographically dispersed testbeds. Each architecture supports chassis families like AresONE, XGS, and Novus ONE PLUS, and is compatible with IxOS/IxNetwork software. The choice depends on lab layout, number of devices, and whether synchronization is needed across multiple sites.

How do synchronization signals get delivered to multiple test chassis?

Synchronization signals are distributed using a combination of timing sources, zero-skew cables, and Metronome Timing System Extenders. The central reference, derived from GPS, 10 MHz, ToD+1PPS, or an internal OCXO clock, is transmitted via coaxial cabling to each chassis. Key delivery components include: Metronome Sync Cable: Zero-skew video cable available in 5m, 50m, and 200m lengths. Extenders: Allow up to 200m between Metronome and chassis, enabling 400m total separation. Supported Signals: Time of Day (ToD), One Pulse Per Second (1PPS), and clock outputs. This structured distribution ensures all chassis operate with aligned timestamps, enabling accurate traffic capture, latency analysis, and protocol emulation, even under high-throughput or timing-sensitive workloads.

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Common synchronization reference for high-scale network testing

The Keysight metronome timing system (MTS) provides a common time, frequency, and phase reference across network test platforms. Designed to synchronize large-scale test environments, MTS supports up to 48 chassis using Metronome-STAR topology, including modular XGS systems and standalone appliances such as Keysight Novus ONE PLUS and AresONE. The system distributes synchronization from GNSS, 10 MHz, and other clock sources, delivering nanosecond accuracy across multichassis setups. Compatible with IxOS and other Keysight network test applications, MTS ensures consistent, repeatable timing for validating the real-world performance of Ethernet, time-sensitive networking, 5G, and AI data center networks. Request a quote for one of our popular configurations today. Want to learn more about this solution? Explore the resources below.

Scalable synchronization

Synchronize up to 48 test chassis in a single test bed, including modular XGS systems and standalone appliances like AresONE, for large-scale test environments.

Workflow integration

Integrates with Keysight network test software to support timing synchronization in traffic generation, latency measurement, and protocol conformance applications.

Precision timing reference

Achieve nanosecond accuracy in local setups and distributed configurations, with cable lengths up to 200 m supported with metronome extenders.

Flexible topologies

Choose from single-level, Metronome-STAR, or GPS-based distributed topologies, flexible architectures that scale from local labs to globally distributed test beds.