Delay measurements of PPS signals in timing systems

The uncertainty of measurements in timing systems is a function not only of the quality of the instruments and system components (time interval counters, pulse distribution amplifiers, Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers, etc.) but also of the quality of the pulses carrying the timing information. This paper presents a study of the consequences of using pulse-per-second (PPS) signals in precise timing systems without properly considering their electrical characteristics. We discuss the effect of pulse shape, its distortion and instrument response on the measurement of time delay using PPS signals.