A master clock is an electronic device that provides time synchronization signals to a number of slave clocks on a network. Typically, the master time clock maintains accurate time from a hardware clock source, such as GPS, GLONASS, Galileo or other sources of precise time.
Slave Clocks
A slave clock is a hardware device that typically depends on a master clock to for accurate time. A number of slave clocks synchronize with a master clock to provide a display of accurate time. Slave clocks typically communicate on a clock network. The clock network can either be two wired system or a more complex Ethernet network. The slave clocks can be Analogue or Digital type clocks.
Types of Clock Network
Originally, many master clock systems used two wired system with serial or parallel connection to synchronize the clocks.
The latest clocks utilize IP based ethernet networking. Ethernet networks allow clocks to be configured from a central point using a standard PC. It also allows much more flexibility of cabling installation. Standard networking devices and infrastructure can be used for the network.
All Time Tools master and slave clocks use Ethernet networking. Additionally, Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) has provided even more installation flexibility. PoE provides both data and power on a single standard Ethernet cable. No mains spur is required where clocks are located – significantly lowering installation costs.
Sources of Accurate Time
There are a number of global and national hardware clock references. Global time references are generally satellite based – such as GPS, GLONASS and Galileo. While national time references are often radio based – such as MSF (UK), DCF (Germany) and WWVB (USA). These time references can be used by master clock systems as a source of accurate time.
The GPS system is operated by the US government, it is a subscription-free system that provides global navigation and timing services. GLONASS is a similar service operated by the Russian government. While Galileo is the new civilian satellite-based navigation and timing system operated by the European Union, is due to be fully operational by 2019.
Our product ranges are as per below:
- GPS antenna
- Server
- Slave clocks
- Software for monitoring and configuration