Symmetricom, Inc. has released its XLi IEEE 1588 Grandmaster clock with GPS reference. IEEE 1588 is a new protocol that enables accurate synchronization over Ethernet LANs and for the first time, offers users the ability to synchronize clocks within better than 100 nanoseconds accuracy, with only a network connection. Symmetricom’s first deployment of the IEEE 1588 protocol is in its versatile XLi GPS time and frequency system.

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IEEE 1588 enables sub-microsecond time-of-day synchronization between clocks over standard Ethernet LAN infrastructure. Previously 1 to 10 microsecond time of day synchronization was the de facto standard using IRIG-B with dedicated coaxial cabling, and 1 to 10 milliseconds was the typical synchronization accuracy using Ethernet and the Network Time Protocol (NTP).

As an increasing number of applications integrate Ethernet and the benefits of speed, flexibility and connectivity are exploited, IEEE 1588 is expected to be adopted as an enabling technology across numerous applications because it will change the way problems are solved. The standard is already being deployed in applications in industrial automation, turbine control systems and submarine sonar systems. As this trend continues and performance requirements become more stringent, demand for more precise timing and synchronization via Ethernet is also expected to increase.

The XLi IEEE 1588 Grandmaster is released to limited availability. IEEE 1588 Grandmaster capability is designed as a field-upgradeable option to the XLi GPS Time and Frequency System.