A hybrid algorithm for efficient Wireless Sensor Network time synchronization

Applications of Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) have increased significantly in the last few decades and real time needs have to be satisfied using appropriate time synchronization algorithms. Novel synchronization algorithms can lead to improved network performance including energy consumption, throughput, and delay. This paper proposes, implements and evaluates a hybrid synchronization algorithm, to achieve performance efficient clock accuracy in cluster-based WSNs. The algorithm uses tight synchronization for inter-cluster communication and loose synchronization for intra-cluster communication. These distinctive features of the proposed hybrid algorithm make it performance-efficient for maintaining synchronization during time division multiple accesses (TDMA) scheduling. The results show reduced synchronization errors and delay with improved energy efficiency and throughput.