Why Computers Struggle to Keep Accurate Time

Discover why computers can't keep time accurately and how NTP servers help fix this problem.

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Computers can't keep accurate time due to internal clock drift. Internal clocks, like the quartz-crystal oscillator, aren’t perfectly stable and are subject to environmental factors, leading to errors over time. Network Time Protocol (NTP) servers frequently correct these discrepancies by synchronizing with more accurate time sources, such as atomic clocks or GPS signals.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What causes computers to lose track of time? Computers lose track of time due to internal clock drift caused by the instability of their internal clocks influenced by environmental factors.
  2. How does Network Time Protocol (NTP) work? NTP synchronizes the clocks of computers with more precise time sources like atomic clocks and GPS, correcting discrepancies in timekeeping.
  3. Why are atomic clocks more accurate than computer clocks? Atomic clocks are based on the vibrations of atoms and are not affected by environmental changes, making them more reliable for timekeeping.
  4. Can I improve my computer's timekeeping? You can improve a computer's timekeeping by ensuring it's connected to a reliable NTP server for regular synchronization.

Watch More

If you're interested in the inner workings of computers and technology, check out our videos on how GPS technology works and the importance of atomic clocks in modern systems.

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