A low-power geographically distributed data acquisition system with WWVB synchronization

Geographically distributed data acquisition systems provide a challenge when synchronization of the data acquisition is required. Current products and research do not provide a low-cost, low-power solution suitable for use in the field. GPS receivers are commonly used for their precision, but their power consumption is excessive. In this paper we present a method for synchronizing geographically distributed systems via the NIST radio station WWVB. We present a prototype version for low-power distributed data acquisition which uses a WWVB receiver for synchronization. We also present the limitations of the method and the prototype, along with typical application issues and lessons learned during system implementation.