Method and apparatus for encoding and/or decoding a time stamp

摘要

The present invention pertains to an apparatus for providing service to entities. The apparatus comprises a server for providing the service. The apparatus also comprises a plurality of entities which require the service of the server. The entities are connected with the server. Additionally, the apparatus comprises a scheduler for scheduling when each of the entities receives the service of the server. The scheduler is connected with the server and the entities. There is a time stamp mechanism for providing a longer-format time stamp to a requesting entity of the plurality of entities whenever the requesting entity requests service from the server. The time stamp mechanism is connected to the scheduler and the server. Moreover, the apparatus comprises means for compressing the longer-format time stamp into a corresponding shorter-format window-based time stamp and storing the shorter-format window based time stamp. The scheduler schedules service by the server of the requesting entity based on the shorter-format window-based time stamp stored in the memory. The present invention pertains to a method for providing service to entities. An apparatus for manipulating a time stamp. A method for manipulating a time stamp.