Time Synchronization and Controlled Asynchronization of Remote Analog Signals with sub nanosecond resolution

This paper describes recent advances in resolution of the Time Synchronization and Controlled Asynchronization of Remote Analog Signals (TSCA). Measurements using a pair of cables of different lengths, ~150m and ~300m are synchronized with sub nanosecond resolution. In addition, output signals from these cables were asynchronized with the same resolution, to target values ranging from -3000ns to +3000ns. This synchronization and asynchronization was accomplished by controlling the relative delay of these two signals, when generated by a dual channel Arbitrary Function Generator. The advancement in resolution was achieved using a highly enhanced resolution Time Domain Reflectometer (e-TDR), having the capability to accurately control the speed of the e-TDR signal in the cables. This advance in resolution was obtained because a recently discovered signal, that has the property of distortionless propagation in lossy cables, was used as the e-TDR pulse. The system was implemented as a Virtual Instrument (VI) in LabVIEW, using a two channel Arbitrary Waveform Generator (ARB) and a Digital Phosphor Oscilloscope (DPO). The resulting errors were less than +/- 0.26ns.