Master Thesis - Calibration and measurement

Background

Netnod is a small high-tech firm based in Sweden which provides services at the core of the Internet, such as Internet-exchange services, transmission, DNS-services, and time and frequency services. Netnod is at the forefront of secure and robust services.

Thesis description

Netnod is the formal time and frequency distributor in Sweden commissioned by the Swedish Post and Telecom Authority (PTS). As part of this mandate, Netnod continuously advances methods for distributing, monitoring, and validating accurate time and frequency across critical infrastructure.

This thesis project focuses on the design, construction, and empirical evaluation of portable calibration equipment that can be deployed directly at end-user facilities. The primary objective is to enable on-site verification of received time and frequency signals, accurately measuring signal propagation delays and path asymmetries. Integrating these measured asymmetries and delays into Netnod’s monitoring routines will establish end-to-end metrological traceability to the end user and lay the technical foundation for routine, periodic on-site customer calibrations.

Qualifications

This thesis project is aimed at students in computer science, electrical engineering, or applied physics with an interest in precision timekeeping, measurement methodology, embedded systems, or network signal analysis.

Extent

Preferably two students, 30hp each

Practicalities

The students are expected to be partly present at the Netnod main office in Solna, Stockholm. The planned semester is spring of 2027.

Netnod will provide an on-site supervisor with relevant academic merits.

Netnod provides necessary equipment, reimbursement for travels, and a one time compensation upon completion of the thesis project.