Most likely, you have heard the generic acronym RAS, which typically stands for Resiliency, Availability, and Serviceability. However, in the world of time synchronization at IBM, we changed RAS to mean Resiliency, Accuracy, and Security.

Timing, timekeeping, time synchronization, and, more specifically, accurate synchronization are key requirements for modern IT systems. This is especially true for industries involved in transaction processing, such as the financial sector.

This need for accuracy is why the IBM Z sysplex relies on highly precise timing and synchronization technology to ensure data integrity and enable database reconstruction from logs. To achieve this, IBM Z uses the best oven-controlled crystal oscillators (OCXOs) in the industry.

But in 2025, it’s not enough. We also need tremendous resiliency and security to maintain those levels of accuracy.