scope:

This standard specifies the protocol and procedures used to ensure that the synchronization requirements are met for time-sensitive applications, such as audio and video, across bridged and virtual bridged local area networks consisting of local area network (LAN) media where the transmission delays are fixed and symmetrical; for example, IEEE 802.3^TM full-duplex links. This includes the maintenance of synchronized time during normal operation and following addition, removal, or failure of network components and network reconfiguration. It specifies the use of IEEE 1588^TM specifications where applicable in the context of IEEE Std 802.1D^TM-2004 and IEEE Std 802.1Q^TM-2005.¹ Synchronization to an externally provided timing signal (e.g., a recognized timing standard such as UTC or TAI) is not part of this standard but is not precluded.

Purpose

This standard enables stations attached to bridged LANs to meet the respective jitter, wander, and time synchronization requirements for time-sensitive applications. This includes applications that involve multiple streams delivered to multiple endpoints. To facilitate the widespread use of bridged LANs for these applications, synchronization information is one of the components needed at each network element where time-sensitive application data are mapped or demapped or a time-sensitive function is performed. This standard leverages the work of the IEEE 1588 Working Group by developing the additional specifications needed to address these requirements.

¹Information on references can be found in Clause 2.