A method for aligning signals on a bus, including: replicating propagation path lengths, loads, and buffering of a radial distribution network for a strobe; receiving a first signal, and generating a second signal by employing the replicated propagation path lengths, loads, and buffering; receiving control information over a standard JTAG bus, wherein the control information indicates an amount to adjust a propagation time; and measuring the propagation time beginning with assertion of the first signal and ending with assertion of the second signal, said measuring comprising: selecting one of a plurality of successively delayed versions of the first signal that coincides with assertion of the second signal; adjusting the propagation time by the amount prescribed by the control information to yield an adjusted propagation time; and gray encoding the adjusted propagation time to generate a value on a lag bus.