Let’s synchronize our clocks!

Time; we can’t imagine a world without it. Almost every appointment is time-related, and synchronized clocks ensure that appointments are not compromised. This is no different when different networks have to communicate with each other, on the contrary. To ensure quality service, a synchronized telephone or VOIP network is necessary. An accurate timestamp is a must for logging security data. In critical systems, uncoordinated time can even be life threatening. Imagine that in aviation, where flight routes are regulated to the minute, even the second, the time would not be the same in every aircraft as the airline leader... The consequences would be catastrophic.

In a world of globalization and networking, an NTP (Network Time Protocol) server is the solution. The protocol works based on UTC (Universal Time Coordinated) and ensures that the deviations in time between the servers are kept to a minimum. The NTP server ensures the time synchronization of your entire network, including routers, servers, and workstations through gradual adjustments. Automation systems in industrial environments that use SCADA or other network monitoring, measuring and control systems, almost always use a high precision NTP reference to guarantee reliable and accurate performances. To improve the measuring accuracy even more, for example, in a laboratory and measuring environment, one can work with a 10MHz signal or PPS (Pulse Per Second).

Time synchronisation can be found everywhere in al kinds of everyday applications! For example in telecom and video broadcasting. For telecommunications, 15nsec accuracy is ideal (4G time accuracy of at least 1.5µ and for the new 5G masts 500nsec). The following standards must be used for video broadcasting: IP-based video (SMPTE ST2110-10) IP-based audio (AES67, SMPTE2110-30). It is important that each broadcast signa remains in the same timeframe. Imagine that the image and sound are out of sync… Watching a movie would take on a completely different dimension. But it is also very important at the stock market that there is an accurate time synchronisation. You can only know and prove the exact value of your share via a timestamp. A few seconds difference can cost a lot of money here. Even a flash device must be able to ensure that correct time is shown in the photo to make it valid.

In order to offer you a suitable solution for these timing issues, we have formed a partnership with Trimble. With over 40 years of experience, Trimble has more GNNS-related patents, products and qualified personnel than anyone else. They have extensive knowledge of the requirements for communication system synchronization. And their products have an MTBF of more than 1,000,000 hours, which has proven the reliability and accuracy of their devices. In addition, like us at Microtron, they are committed to customer satisfaction, which convinced us that this would be a successful partnership.

Together we make every effort to work out a personalized solution for you. Do you simply want to give a reference signal, or do you need a very accurate clock pulse or timestamp? Are you looking for separate OEM chips that can be built into you own application, or a complete masterclock or NTP server? Microtron ensures the right solution! Do not hesitate to contact us.