2 problems need to be solved in any time-related application:

(1) Which clock is used as the reference for all other clocks
(2) How to transfer the time from the reference clock to all other clocks

The solution to time as a reference is a master clock. The method by which the accuracy of the master clock is transferred to another, slave, or secondary clock, is known as synchronization. Spectracom offers a variety of master clocks, synchronization clocks, and master clock systems to meet the requirements for your application of accurate time. Typically, GPS satellite signals are utilized for synchronization to ensure accurate time, but other references may be used such as case of local atomic clocks or other time standards.

What is a master clock?

Master Clocks normally take one or more precise timing reference signals as inputs, then convert and distribute those timing references to other devices so their clocks are almost as accurate as the master clock.

Master clock systems are used in a wide variety of applications and industries including aerospace and defense, broadcast, radio, and telecom, network systems, financial services, emergency operations and call centers, and healthcare -- essentially anywhere reliability of data and signals are paramount.

Network master clocks distribute their timing references over local or wide area networks. Master clocks with wireless transmitters enable synchronization of devices (like display clocks) without having to run wires between them for the synchronization signal. There are also highly accurate master clock solutions that utilize copper or fiber connections for signal distribution of precise analog and digital signals such as IRIG timecode, and HaveQuick and STANAG timecodes.

When every second counts, buyers of hospital clock systems time and time again turn to Inova’s OnTime Ethernet clocks. Ok, so maybe there are too many puns in that opening sentence, but there are absolute truths buried in there. Take, for example, a hospital system in Indiana that needed around-the-clock support. (Ok, I’m done now) But seriously – when Reid Hospital in Richmond, Indiana purchased 450 Inova OnTime™ Ethernet clocks, they did so to fit their existing technology footprint.

Reid Hospital had previously made an investment in Cisco Power over Ethernet switches back in 2007. According to the clock purchaser, the clocks helped to justify the investment in the PoE Cisco switches.

In healthcare facilities like Reid Hospital, synchronized time is critical to daily operations, whether it’s checking on patients or delivering medications. When shift workers’ schedules are in sync, patients can count on uninterrupted care whenever they need it.

Here are some commonalities we’ve seen from hospitals that rely on OnTime for timekeeping:

• Hospitals depend on PoE devices like OnTime because they’re CE-marked for low RF emittance. Compared to wireless clocks that require A/C power or batteries, our network clocks are powered by the network itself, and don’t transmit or receive radio frequencies. This is an especially important consideration when purchasing clocks that will be located near sensitive medical equipment.
• Hospitals are the biggest buyers of our stainless steel 6-digit clocks for emergency rooms and operating rooms. Inova is the only manufacturer of a stainless steel clock that matches the décor of OR facilities. Inova OnTime is also the only clock that features three-quarter-height seconds, meaning that it’s easy to read and distinguish between full-height hours and minutes and three-quarter-height seconds.
• Hospitals love the look of our analog clocks in patient rooms because they don’t emit light, which could detract from a darkened room environment for sleeping. Because they’re synchronized to the network, doctors and nurses can trust the times shown for medication administration and other time-critical tasks.

Thanks to Inova Solutions for the article. 

SecureSync platform to support the integration of multiple devices and systems using precise time and frequency signals

Rochester, NY USA June 28, 2012 — Spectracom, a business of the Orolia Group, has commenced delivery of their SecureSync® precision timing systems to Northrop Grumman. Northrop Grumman selected the SecureSync platform to support the integration of multiple devices and systems using precise time and frequency signals. Timing and synchronization is a critical interoperability parameter for different systems to operate as one integrated force.

The SecureSync platform is ideal for military systems as it provides a high level of integration and capability in a compact chassis for mobile deployments for theater-wide defense. Offering the reliability, precision, and ease-of-use needed for mission-critical operations, the system fits in a single rack unit and is expandable and upgradeable to accommodate future requirements.

Spectracom General Manager, Bill Glase, comments, “We understand the needs of our customers to manage and monitor precision timing signals that interface multiple devices and systems into one operational unit. Our approach to offer a robust and modular timing system provides an integrated solution at the lowest total cost.”