Microchip Technology releases TimeProvider 4100 Timing Grandmaster version 2.1

April 22, 2020 – To help 5G mobile providers, cable operators and utility providers ensure phase delivery, protection and synchronization even when the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) is offline, jammed or spoofed, Microchip Technology released software version 2.1 for its TimeProvider 4100 precision timing grandmaster.
 
TimeProvider 4100 is a 1588 grandmaster including support for the latest ITU-T G.8275.1 and G.8275.2 1588 phase profiles, complemented by extensive port fan-out for PTP, Network Time Protocol (NTP), SyncE, and E1/T1. Software version 2.1 builds on earlier versions by adding key software enhancements providing a virtual Primary Reference Time Clock (vPRTC). Virtual PRTC provides the ability to design a redundant precise time distribution architecture for phase protection over an optical network.

Until recently the main source of precise time has been the Global Positioning System (GPS) and regional constellations that comprise the GNSS. Deployment of GNSS, however, can be costly for service providers given the costs associated with upgrading to GNSS-capable receivers and antennae as well as increasing densification of end points. As a result, telecom, cable and utility operators deploying vPRTC benefit from solutions where GNSS dependency is reduced or eliminated. Features of the vPRTC functionality include:

• Leverages the existing optical network, avoiding dark fiber expenses
• Uses a dedicated lambda to transport time
• Provides a redundant source of time through enhanced PRTC (ITU-T G.8272.1)
• Allows bidirectional, precise time flows (east and west)
• Chains together multi-domain boundary clocks that meet today's standards (T-BC Class D, as defined by ITU-T G.8273.2)

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