Real-time free-running time scale with remote clocks on fiber-based frequency network

In this paper, we propose a real-time free-running time scale based on four remote hydrogen masers. The clocks in the ensemble were scattered around Beijing, connected by urban fiber links using a novel frequency synchronization system. The remote clock ensemble prevents the time scale from potential problems caused by correlation among co-located clocks. Insofar as it is real-time, it fulfills the requirements for applications such as navigation, telecommunications and so on. The free-running time scale is updated every 1200 s, and a disturbance-resistant algorithm makes it robust to fiber link disturbances and clock malfunctions. The results of a continuous experiment over 224 d are reported. The stability of the time scale outperformed any clock in the ensemble for averaging times of more than approximately 10⁴ s.