Definition of time signal

The term "time signal" refers to a specific type of radio transmission that is designed to provide precise timing references to various devices and technologies that require accurate timing information. The use of time signals dates back to the late 19th century when Marconi, the pioneering Italian inventor, first transmitted wireless radio signals across distances. As radio technology evolved and became more widely adopted, so too did the use of time signals to improve its performance and accuracy. One of the earliest and most famous examples of a time signal is the time ball, which was first introduced in the early 19th century. A time ball was a large sphere mounted on the roof of a building such as a lighthouse, observatory, or clock tower. At precise intervals, the ball would be pulled or dropped, triggering a loud bell or horn that would signal the exact time to nearby ships and sailors. Time signals were later extended to radio communication, where they were used to synchronize clocks and other timing equipment across wide areas. The first international time signal system was established in 1921 by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), which today is responsible for regulating and coordinating many aspects of global telecommunication. The ITU's time signal system, called the World Radio- astronomy Service (WRAS), is still in use today, providing precise timing references to countless devices and technologies around the world, including GPS satellites, atomic clocks, and digital communication networks. In summary, the term "time signal" refers to a specific type of radio transmission that provides precise timing references to various devices and technologies. It has its roots in the late 19th century with the introduction of the time ball, and has since evolved into a global system regulated by the International Telecommunication Union to synchronize clocks and other timing equipment across wide areas.