Using Network Synchronization in Your 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:
    • Line topology—Also known as daisy-chaining or bus topology. The host communicates directly with all nodes through one bus line. A standard Ethernet device or switch can be added to the end of the chain.
    • Ring topology—The host communicates with all nodes through the most effective path. You must use an external switch and configure the network properly before creating redundant links in the network.
    • Star topology—The host communicates directly with each node through an external switch. Redundant links are recommended, but optional. You must use an external switch and configure the network properly before creating redundant links in the network.
      Note For network synchronization, star topology configuration requires an external IEEE 802.1AS or 1588 switch. All the devices and switches within the star topology must be compliant with the IEEE 802.1AS or 1588 protocol to enable synchronization.
    Refer to your device documentation, available at ni.com/docs, for additional information on synchronization and networking.
  3. To ensure 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. Only devices set to the same protocol are synchronized.

    If an equal number of devices with configured channels are set to IEEE 802.1AS and 1588 protocol, FlexLogger uses the protocol for the first network FlexLogger discovers.
    1588 Use 1588 protocol on all TSN devices
    802.1AS Use 802.1AS protocol on all TSN devices.
When you have connected and configured the network synchronization-supported devices in your system and enabled synchronization in FlexLogger, the FlexLogger toolbar displays a green SYNC indicator to signal that synchronization is working properly. If the SYNC display does not appear or is not green, refer to Synchronization Status for troubleshooting information.