What should be done if a tick is lost? - briefly
If a tick disappears, pause the operation, verify the clock source, and invoke the system’s recovery routine to regenerate or replace the missing tick. Confirm synchronization after the fix to ensure accurate timing.
What should be done if a tick is lost? - in detail
When a tick fails to appear in a timing‑critical system, immediate corrective actions are required to prevent data loss, synchronization errors, or downstream failures.
First, verify the source. Check the hardware or software component responsible for generating the tick. Look for power interruptions, firmware glitches, or misconfigured timers. Resetting the generator or reloading its configuration often restores normal operation.
Second, inspect the communication path. Confirm that cables, connectors, and network interfaces are intact. Use diagnostic tools to trace the signal from the source to the receiver. Replace any faulty hardware identified.
Third, implement a fallback mechanism. Enable an alternative clock source or duplicate timer that can assume responsibility if the primary tick disappears. Ensure the system can switch seamlessly without interrupting ongoing processes.
Fourth, log the event. Record the timestamp, system state, and any error codes at the moment the tick was missed. This information aids root‑cause analysis and supports future prevention strategies.
Fifth, perform a post‑incident review. Analyze logs, replicate the failure in a controlled environment, and adjust system parameters—such as timeout thresholds, watchdog settings, or redundancy levels—to reduce recurrence.
Typical response checklist:
- Confirm tick generator status; restart if necessary.
- Validate signal integrity across transmission media.
- Activate backup clock or redundant timer.
- Capture detailed logs for forensic analysis.
- Update configuration and documentation to reflect corrective measures.
Prompt execution of these steps restores timing accuracy and safeguards overall system reliability.