TS 3141

TS 3141 is a standard concerned with the numerical representation of the time of day in information interchange. It focuses on how local time and universal time are expressed as a continuous 24-hour clock value, so that different systems can exchange the same time information in a common numeric form. The core issue is not calendar date, but a clear and comparable way to represent clock time as data.

Why numeric time representation matters

In general technical practice, numeric time notation helps reduce ambiguity in recording, ordering, and exchanging data. A 24-hour format avoids the need for AM/PM qualifiers and is therefore especially useful in computer systems, databases, communication protocols, and stored records. The distinction between local time and universal time is important because the same clock value can refer to different moments depending on the time zone context.

The scope of this standard is limited to the representation of time itself. The title and scope indicate that it addresses time notation for interchange between information systems, while not covering processing sequences, data storage arrangements, programming languages, or other computing characteristics. In other words, it is a data-representation standard rather than a broader software design standard.

Document context and practical relevance

This entry corresponds to an equivalent of ISO 3307:1975 and is marked as withdrawn. Historically, it served as a reference for consistent exchange of time data in information technology and documentation contexts. Like other notation standards, its practical value lies in reducing interpretation differences and supporting predictable machine-to-machine communication.

• Focuses on continuous 24-hour time-of-day representation.
• Covers both local time and universal time usage.
• Intended for information interchange between systems.
• Does not cover processing order, storage, or programming languages.