Sleep Clock Accuracy

Network Synchronization

In time-synchronized protocols, both the transmitter and receiver must agree on the exact start time of the next communication slot. A higher accuracy clock allows the nodes to remain synchronized for longer periods without sending synchronization packets.

Energy Efficiency

If the clock source has low accuracy, the receiver must start listening earlier than the scheduled time to account for potential drift. This extended listening time increases the average current draw and shortens the battery life of the device.

Component Trade-off

Designers must choose between a low-cost, low-accuracy internal RC oscillator and a higher-cost, high-accuracy external crystal oscillator. While the crystal oscillator provides better accuracy, it increases the bill of materials cost and requires additional board space. The internal oscillator can be used if the firmware implements regular calibration against a high-frequency reference.

This approach balances cost and performance by maintaining acceptable accuracy with minimal hardware overhead.