Evaluating the Best Master Clocks For Your Needs
What is a Master Clock?
A master clock is like an orchestra conductor, except it manages time instead of managing musical instruments. It’s like the boss of all the clocks in an organisation – telling them when to tick and when to tock – making sure they all play in perfect harmony.
So how does it achieve this?
The master clock is typically connected to a GPS receiver or other synchronisation source, to ensure that it maintains accurate time. It then distributes a precise time signal using various methods of synchronisation to other ‘slave’ clocks or devices within an environment.
In this article, we take a deep dive into the world of master clocks, which are essential in many industries and applications, comparing the different models to make it easy to choose the right one.
Types of Master Clocks
Master clocks are essential time-keeping devices used in organisations to synchronise multiple clocks, devices, and systems. Here’s a brief comparison of two different types of master clocks:
- GPS Master Clock: A GPS master clock uses signals from GPS satellites to keep accurate time. It is highly accurate and can synchronise multiple devices across great distances. However, it requires an unobstructed view of the sky and can be affected by weather conditions.
- Network Master Clock: A network master clock uses network protocols to synchronise time across multiple devices connected to a network. It can synchronise devices across large distances, but network delays can affect its accuracy. These clocks commonly use GPS as the synchronisation source.
So what are the major differences in a nutshell? GPS master clocks are more accurate and suitable for more demanding applications. Network master clocks are useful for synchronising devices across a network.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Master Clock
When choosing a master clock, several factors must be considered to ensure it meets the application’s specific requirements. Here are some of the most important aspects to consider:
Accuracy
The accuracy of a master clock refers to how well it keeps time compared to a standard time reference. The accuracy required will depend on the specific application, but an accuracy of within a few seconds per day is acceptable for most applications. Master clocks with network or GPS references offer high levels of accuracy, while quartz master clocks may be less accurate.
Stability
The stability of a master clock refers to how well it maintains its accuracy over time. A stable master clock will keep time accurately over long periods without drifting. The stability required will depend on the specific application, but for most applications, a stable master clock is essential.
Scalability
The scalability of a master clock refers to its ability to synchronise a growing number of devices over time. If the number of devices that need to be synchronised is expected to grow, a scalable master clock is required. Network master clocks are highly scalable as they can synchronise large numbers of devices across a network.
Maintenance and support
The maintenance requirements and level of support available for a master clock are essential factors to consider. GPS and Network and master clocks have a higher initial setup investment but require less maintenance. The level of support available from the manufacturer or supplier should also be considered to ensure any issues can be resolved quickly and effectively
In a nutshell, when choosing a master clock, accuracy, stability, scalability, maintenance, and support should be your main considerations to ensure that the master clock meets your specific requirements.
Find out which Master Clock Will Work for You
If you require the assistance of a proactive, reliable, experienced, family-run business that’s also a global brand in the digital clock manufacturing industry, speak to Wharton Electronics.
We take great pride in delivering innovative and quality digital clocks that serve more than a single purpose and add value to an organisation. For more information, contact us today.