Method for utilizing a backup timing source when GPS becomes nonfunctional
OwnerDavid Benco, Kevin Overend +3inventors
InventorsDavid Benco, Kevin Overend, Baoling Sheen, Sandra True, Kenneth Voight
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Abstract
The present invention provides a method for utilizing a backup timing source in digital communication systems when GPS becomes nonfunctional. When a base station fails to receive an expected signal from a GPS satellite, a GPS failure timer is started. If the base station does not receive a signal from the GPS satellite prior to the expiration of the timer, the wireless communication system switches to a backup timing system, such as NTP (Network Time Protocol).
Claims17
A method for utilizing a backup timing source in a wireless communication system that utilizes GPS (Global Positioning System) as a primary timing source, the method comprising:
- determining that the primary timing source has become nonfunctional;
- and
- switching to a backup timing source.
A method for utilizing a backup timing source in a digital communication system that utilizes GPS (Global Positioning System) as a primary timing source, the method comprising:
- determining that GPS has become nonfunctional;
- starting a failure timer;
- and
- upon expiration of the timer, switching to a backup timing source.
A method for switching from a backup timing source to a primary timing source, the method comprising:
- running in a backup timing mode;
- determining when the primary timing source returns to service;
- and
- switching to the primary timing source.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.