With the rapid development of critical infrastructure segments such as 5G telecommunications, power facilities and transportation, operators are eager to continuously upgrade their networks with technologies that can provide higher processing speeds and high-precision time sources. At the same time, these technologies need to be independent of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) constellations, such as GPS, GALILEO and QZSS. In order to meet the needs of network operators for high-precision time distribution, Microchip today announced the launch of a new TimeProvider® 4500 master clock product. This hardware timing platform provides high-speed network interfaces up to 25 Gbps and achieves precise time accuracy of less than 1 nanosecond.
The TimeProvider 4500 master clock supports ultra-large-capacity Precision Time Protocol (PTP) tasks, and the innovative hardware platform provides higher IEEE-1588 scalability for thousands of clients. In network locations where range and capacity need to be balanced, especially in C-band 5G deployments, it is critical to serve thousands of gNodeBs from a single master clock. Operators of all sizes can achieve cost-effective and flexible deployment.
The TimeProvider 4500 master clock has flexible connection methods and can be connected to network elements of all generations, helping to protect operators' infrastructure investments. As the first 1588 master clock to support 25 Gbps, customers can connect the TimeProvider 4500 clock to a variety of network devices utilizing 1 Gbps, 10 Gbps or 25 Gbps network links. High-speed bandwidth has become critical as network elements are upgraded to equipment requiring at least 10 Gbps and even up to 100 Gbps.
The TimeProvider 4500 Master Clock’s high time accuracy is particularly important for operators trying to deploy GNSS replacement solutions. The terrestrial option is considered an attractive solution to achieve long-distance transmission of high-precision time within existing optical network deployments and avoid dependence on global navigation satellite systems. In this case, the requirements for the accuracy of the time signal source and regeneration are increasingly higher.
The TimeProvider 4500 Master Clock also features new hardware-assisted enhancements, such as the latest generation digital synthesizer and Microchip's PolarFire® SoC FPGA, which enable systems with picosecond-level time accuracy.
"Microchip is committed to developing new and innovative time and frequency solutions for critical infrastructure," said Randy Brudzinski, vice president of Microchip's Frequency and Time Systems business unit. "We designed the TimeProvider 4500 clock to provide higher performance in existing optical network environments. Unparalleled timing accuracy without the need for expensive upgrades or dedicated dark fiber. The solution is also the first master clock with high-speed data processing capabilities of up to 25 Gbps, enabling connectivity to the latest network elements in deployment."
The TimeProvider 4500 master clock's advanced hardware platform supports all functions of the TimeProvider 4100 clock, ensuring that operators deploying new products can also benefit from their investment in the TimeProvider 4100 series. TP4500 adds some special functions based on TP4100 due to its enhanced hardware platform.
The TimeProvider 4500 master clock integrates the TimePictra® synchronization management solution, allowing operators to monitor and track real-time faults and threats and gain visibility into overall network conditions. Other key features of the TimePictra platform include comprehensive fault, configuration, accounting (inventory), performance and security (FCAPS) management capabilities; geographical topology and domain navigation; user preference dashboard customization, an intuitive web graphical user interface for easy management, and more.
The TimeProvider 4500 series is Microchip’s latest IEEE-1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP) master clock product, delivering industry-leading performance and value with field-proven solutions that meet timing requirements from low-density indoor applications to high-capacity 5G networks. .
Availability and Pricing
The TimeProvider 4500 Master Clock is now available. For more information and purchase, please contact Microchip distributor-TOPCHIP ELECTRONICS, TOPCHIP ELECTRONICS email address is as follows: