Device and method for the synchronization of a system of networked computers

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system and method for synchronizing coupled multi-computer systems. The system and method increase availability and reliability. Multi-computer systems that use the inventive system only require one hardware timing clock or module, thus eliminating the risks caused by a synchronization of hardware timing modules. In order for a coupled computer to have a clock pulse, the latter is engaged by the time synchronization method. As each computer is usually equipped with a hardware timing module, the allocation of the active hardware timing module to a computer can be altered if necessary. Subsystem steps have been introduced into the inventive system to maintain an appropriate separation of the synchronization process from the applications. Said subsystem steps are independent of the operating system and the hardware. This permits the division of applications into constant elements without the system having to take into consideration the task of the application. Synchronization points for a validity check are defined between the steps.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.