Ntp Message Format - HP 4800G Series Configuration Manual

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NTP Message Format

NTP uses two types of messages, clock synchronization message and NTP control message. An NTP

control message is used in environments where network management is needed. As it is not a must for

clock synchronization, it will not be discussed in this document.

All NTP messages mentioned in this document refer to NTP clock synchronization messages.

A clock synchronization message is encapsulated in a UDP message, in the format shown in

Figure 1-2 Clock synchronization message format

Main fields are described as follows:

LI: 2-bit leap indicator. When set to 11, it warns of an alarm condition (clock unsynchronized); when

set to any other value, it is not to be processed by NTP.

VN: 3-bit version number, indicating the version of NTP. The latest version is version 3.

Mode: a 3-bit code indicating the work mode of NTP. This field can be set to these values: 0 –

reserved; 1 – symmetric active; 2 – symmetric passive; 3 – client; 4 – server; 5 – broadcast or

multicast; 6 – NTP control message; 7 – reserved for private use.

Stratum: an 8-bit integer indicating the stratum level of the local clock, with the value ranging from 1

to 16. The clock precision decreases from stratum 1 through stratum 16. A stratum 1 clock has the

highest precision, and a stratum 16 clock is not synchronized and cannot be used as a reference

Poll: 8-bit signed integer indicating the poll interval, namely the maximum interval between

successive messages.

Root delay (32 bits)

Root dispersion (32 bits)

Reference identifier (32 bits)

Reference timestamp (64 bits)

Originate timestamp (64 bits)

Receive timestamp (64 bits)

Transmit timestamp (64 bits)

Authenticator (optional 96 bits)

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