Timing

Timing of a signal is a way of describing the current position of the signal in the universe. When two signals travel along the same path (e.g. two gliders on the same lane), their timings can be compared by determining how many generations pass before the second signal reaches the position currently occupied by the first signal.

Replacing some part of a circuit with a different compatible sub-circuit may change timings of signals. For example, replacing a Snark with a bumper delays the output glider by 5 ticks. Examples of compatible components with differing timings can be found among reflectors and Herschel-to-glider converters.

For several types of conduits, there are conventions for short descriptions (such as "SW-2T21", "Fx77" or "BFx59H"), where the timing of the output signal relative to the input signal is included in the description.

Also see

• Asynchronous and Synchronous
• Trombone slide
• Heisenburp
• Universal regulator
• Colour of a glider
• Repeat time

Further reading

• Conway's Game of Life: Mathematics and Construction, 4.1.2 Glider Lanes and Timing