Using Network Synchronization in Your FlexLogger Project

Automatically synchronize acquisitions between systems across an Ethernet network.

This feature is available only as part of a complete FlexLogger license. Refer to FlexLogger Editions for more information.

Synchronization-enabled devices must use the same protocol, either IEEE 802.1AS or 1588, to synchronize over the network.

  1. Ensure that your system includes at least two devices that support network synchronization. Refer to Supported Hardware for more information.
  2. Ensure that the synchronization-enabled devices in your system connected using a configuration that supports network synchronization. You can use the following topology configuration options:
    TopologyDescription
    Line topology

    Also known as daisy-chaining or bus topology. The host communicates directly with all nodes through one bus line. Add a standard Ethernet device or switch to the end of the chain.

    Figure 3. Line Topology

    Host communicates directly with all nodes through a single bus line.
    Ring topology

    The host communicates with all nodes through the most effective path. Use an external switch and configure the network before creating redundant links.

    Figure 4. Ring Topology

    Host communicates with all nodes through an external switch and redundant links.
    Star topology

    The host communicates directly with each node through an external switch. NI recommends redundant links, but they’re optional. Use an external switch and configure the network before creating redundant links.

    Figure 5. Star Topology

    Host communicates directly with each node through an external switch and optional redundant links.

    Note For network synchronization, star topology requires an external IEEE 802.1AS or 1588 switch. All devices and switches in the star topology must comply with IEEE 802.1AS or 1588 to enable synchronization.
    Tip Refer to your device documentation, available at https://ni.com/docs, for more information on synchronization and networking.
  3. To verify that synchronization is enabled, navigate to File » Preferences » General and check Enable multi-chassis and network synchronization.
  4. Select the network synchronization protocol you want to use.
    OptionDescription
    Device setting Use the protocol currently set on each TSN device. FlexLogger synchronizes using the protocol set on the majority of devices. FlexLogger synchronizes only devices set to the same protocol.

    If the same number of configured devices use IEEE 802.1AS and 1588, FlexLogger uses the protocol on the first network it discovers.
    1588 Use 1588 protocol on all TSN devices.
    802.1AS Use 802.1AS protocol on all TSN devices.
The SYNC indicator in the FlexLogger toolbar turns green to show that synchronization is working. If the SYNC indicator doesn’t appear or isn’t green, refer to Synchronization Status for troubleshooting information.