PTP Clock Manager for Linux

Renesas Precision Time Protocol (PTP) Clock Manager for Linux (pcm4l) software supports IEEE 1588 and Synchronous Ethernet communication requirements to meet stringent ITU-T Network synchronization and time distribution. PTP Clock Manager is meant to complement an IEEE 1588-2008/2019 compliant PTP stack and features a clock servo and Packet Delay Variation (PDV) filter to meet the needs of ITU-T standard G.8273.4 and G.8263. While designed for use with the ClockMatrix™ synchronizers from Renesas, which support ITU-T standard G.8273.2 filtering in hardware, it can also be used with older generation devices. The PTP Clock Manager software is provided free of charge (under license) as long as it is paired with a clock synchronization device (such as the 8A34001) from Renesas.  

In conjunction with this software, Renesas has developed and helps maintain a PTP kernel driver in mainline Linux, creating a proven solution for managing timestamps and establishing synchronization across the network. Renesas is actively working with TSU vendors to get the PTP kernel drivers included in their software distribution. We expect customers to have the PTP kernel drivers implemented and functioning properly prior to attempting to use the PTP Clock Manager software. For designs based on Xilinx MPSoC or RFSoC, Renesas can provide ZCU102/ZCU111 files based on Vivado/PetaLinux 2018.3 and ZCU102 files based on Vivado/PetaLinux 2020.1. If more hands on assistance is required, customers should engage with sales to discuss fees applicable for such support.

Combining the power of the kernel, PTP Clock Manager, and ClockMatrix™ devices, customers can easily deploy the Renesas solution with any vendor’s Time Stamp Unit (TSU) for their telecom and non-telecom applications. Many TSU vendors also offer kernel drivers in Linux, establishing a plug and play development environment.

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