Precision Timing

High accuracy GPS timing solutions

Overview:

Precise time synchronization is the essence of modern wireless communication systems.

Why is GPS crucial for global stock markets? Because GPS is the heartbeat of global computer networks. Only GPS can provide time with nanosecond accuracy, regardless of where a computer within the network is located.

Why is the synchronization of computer networks important? Because it is the difference between a stock order from Sydney being executed before or after one entered in New York. A single millisecond error can result in a loss (or gain) of millions of dollars!

Time synchronization of global networks is challenging. Radio or wire based synchronization is not accurate enough as the signal travel time exceeds the desired accuracy. A GPS receiver can provide the time accuracy of atomic clocks and synchronize over the world to UTC, the high-precision atomic time standard defined and controlled by the International Telecommunication Union.

GPS time is not only useful for banks and stock exchanges; it is also used for the synchronization of electric utilities, mobile communication networks such as UMTS, CDMA and WiMAX. It is also used in geology for oil field exploration.

Key features:

u-blox offers dedicated solutions for precision timing applications. Their main features include:

GPS-synchronized time-pulse output: Standard output rate is 1 Hertz but u-blox receivers can be configured to update at any specific frequency, from 0.1 to 1000 Hertz.
High accuracy: Our solutions boast an accuracy of 50 nanoseconds Root Mean Square (RMS); 15 nanoseconds (RMS) when the quantization error of the timepulse is compensated in post-processing.
Single satellite timing and navigation functionality: Our timing receivers maintain timing capabilities even with only one satellite in view. This means that time can be output even under adverse signal conditions or in environments with poor sky visibility. Flexible antenna placement options in turn reduce installation costs.
Self survey mode for determining accurate static position: This invaluable feature allows for a receiver to determine its position autonomously and accurately, without the need for a costly manual surveying. By establishing an accurate static position, the timing receiver is able to optimize its algorithms for the output of a highly accurate time.
Employs T-RAIM algorithms to detect faulty GPS measurements.
Fast acquisition and AssistNow support helps to bring down installation costs as the antenna does not need to be placed at a location with direct sky view such as a building rooftop.
Our 17 x 22.4 mm LEA modules enable integration into small-sized applications. The module’s SMT pads allow for fully automatic assembly processes with standard pick-and-place equipment and reflow soldering. These features make LEA modules ideal for cost-efficient, high-volume production.
The LEA form factor ensures that customers can easily migrate from one GPS technology generation to the next, without having to modify the PCB.

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last modified: 02.04.2008

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