PRECISION TIME, FREQUENCY & SYNCHRONISATION SOLUTION - TimeTrace II

Time & Frequency Solutions (TFS), manufacturers of precision timing systems, have updated and re-launched their Timetrace GPS Common View Measurement System.  Not only has the unit received a facelift, but it also now sports a built-in computer with a well-designed touchscreen for configuration, monitoring and data log purposes.

The  19” 3U-high rack-mountable  unit is capable of tracking twelve GPS satellites (previously nine), offering high performance and reliability at an accessible cost. The unit processes data and produces files in accordance with BIPM directives, generating CGGTTS format files.

Timetrace II is an exceptionally accurate time and frequency comparison system which, when used in conjunction with a similar device in a National Standards Laboratory, brings the accuracy and traceability of your National Time standard into your laboratory.  Timetrace II enables calibration of clocks and frequency sources without resort to the use of travelling clocks.

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Timing Systems - How do they work?

The Timing System receives a signal from a trusted time source, such as GPS. Other time sources could be terrestrial signals such as MSF (transmitted from Anthorn, England) and DCF (transmitted from Frankfurt, Germany),  or even timecode signal inputs, e.g. RS232, RS422, IRIG, AFNOR and NASA timecodes.

The signal then calibrates the internal clock in the master timing system. The internal clock, or oscillator, provides stability to the overall system if the GPS signal (or other synchronisation source) is interrupted for any reason. Many grades of oscillator are available, according to the stability grade required.

Diagram: example of how an airport timing system interfaces with different legacy systems







The time signal is then converted into outputs, which can be in many different formats, such as serial, parallel, NTP and industry-standard time codes such as IRIG, and AFNOR. Many standard systems are unable to cope with a multi-vendor requirement, where many different output interfaces are required.  This requirement is especially evident with legacy systems. We have overcome this by producing a range of flexible modular timing systems together with a wide range of output modules to interface with whatever systems the customer requires.

Time & Frequency Solutions recommend the use of a 'dual-redundant system' whereby a changeover unit links two timing systems with the ability to switch the signal from one to the other if a failure occurs. Sometimes a triple-redundant system is more appropriate, linking three timing systems.