Latency measurements obtained from the Simulation Network Analysis Project

Simulator time delays (latencies) are an important factor in the simulation world. In research and/or training, any high-fidelity simulation is adversely affected by latencies. The Simulation Network Analysis Project (SNAP) was developed to investigate these latencies. The SNAP system can measure latencies between vital points (stick input, state variables, visual displays and the network interface unit-or any other points of interest) in a standalone simulator and between networked simulators. Data correlation is accomplished via Global Positioning System (GPS) time-stamping. This paper reports on the findings from past latency measurements and key lessons learned. Factors affecting latency, such as network configuration (hardware and software), simulator modifications and network loading are discussed.