A system replaces the current “Genlock” reference signals and distribution architectures used in media and broadcasting use an IP network and distributed timekeeping service, such as ISO/IEC 61588 or IEEE1588. In such a system, a master and multiple slave devices are used to distribute precision time and phase information to synchronize equipment and systems. The method described herein allows the generation of a signal standard and format with a single distribution system. In addition, the method allows this distribution to be accomplished over an IP network despite the non-deterministic performance of such networks. The method also allows the deterministic generation of signals at slave devices.