master clock

Central timing authority

A master clock is a precision timekeeping device that serves as the authoritative time source for a system, synchronizing all other clocks or timing mechanisms connected to it.

In buildings, a master clock sends signals to secondary clocks throughout the facility so they all display identical time.

In electronics and computing, the master clock generates the fundamental timing signal that coordinates operations across circuits or networked devices.

The studio's master clock ensures all digital audio equipment stays in perfect sync.

timekeeping

synchronization

Aligning timing across systems

quartz · oscillator · frequency · calibration · accuracy · standard · pulse · signal · drift · stability

navigation

chronometer

Precision timekeeping instrument

Greenwich · naval · voyage · position · celestial navigation · timekeeper · sextant · dead reckoning · nautical · Harrison

broadcasting

network

Interconnected system

frame · signal · studio · broadcast · satellite · GPS · audio sync · pips · countdown · schedule

Opposites
precision/reliability

master clockstopped clock

Timepiece no longer functioning

sundial

Family

master, clock, masters, mastered, mastering, masterly, masterful, masterfully, mastery

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Rated G