syncsignaal

Syncsignaal, or synchronization signal, is a timing signal used to coordinate operations between devices, subsystems, or data streams. Its primary purpose is to indicate the start of a new data unit, frame, or clock cycle, enabling receivers to align their local clocks and processing steps with a transmitter.

In analog video, the concept manifests as HSYNC and VSYNC, which tell the display when to start a new scan line and a new frame. In digital systems, synchronization signals can take the form of frame start markers, word clocks, or dedicated clock and data recovery signals. Some systems embed sync information within the data stream, while others rely on an external reference, often called genlock, to align multiple devices.

Generation and challenges: Sync signals can be generated by specialized hardware called a sync generator, an external reference, or by software for flexible timing. In multi-device setups, proper synchronization is essential to avoid frame tearing, data misalignment, or metastability when crossing clock domains. Designers use buffering, phase-locked loops, and synchronization protocols to manage timing.

Common applications: broadcast and studio equipment, video displays and cameras, measurement and test instruments, and embedded systems that require coordinated sampling and processing. The term is used in many domains, from video and audio to telecommunications and instrumentation.