The invention relates to a synchronous clocked communication system, for example a distributed automation system, the stations of which can be arbitrary automation components and which are coupled to one another via a data network (1). Using the disclosed method for integrating decentralized input/output modules (2, 3), these decentralized input/output modules (2, 3) can be linked into the synchronous clocked communication system in such a manner that they can use their characteristics unrestrictedly. Thus, in particular, the detection of input signals and the output of output signals is possible in a deterministic and synchronous manner in the decentralized input/output modules 2, 3. In addition, the disclosed method enables input signals to be detected with an accuracy of less than the length of one communication cycle of the communication system and to support the switching of output signals in smaller time granularities than the length of one communication cycle which, in particular, finds use, e.g. for switching cams. In addition, the invention provides for synchronization for actual-value detections and nominal-value outputs of the most varied types of automation components such as, e.g. decentralized input/output modules (2, 3) and digital drives (4, 5, 6). All possible bus systems such as, e.g. field bus, professional field bus, Ethernet, industrial Ethernet, FireWire or also bus systems internal to a PC (PCI) etc. are conceivable as the data network (1) of the communication system.