PCI Time & Frequency Processor

PCI Time & Frequency Processor – Precision Timing for Mission-Critical Systems

The PCI Time & Frequency Processor is a high-performance, precision-timing solution designed to meet the demanding synchronization requirements of today’s time-sensitive applications. Engineered for integration into standard PCI-based computing platforms, this advanced processor delivers accurate time and frequency references derived from GPS, atomic clocks, or other high-stability sources. It is widely used in sectors like telecommunications, broadcasting, power utilities, defense, and scientific research where precise timekeeping is essential.

Built to offer nanosecond-level accuracy and exceptional reliability, the PCI Time & Frequency Processor ensures that all components in a system operate on a synchronized clock, which is crucial for data consistency, network performance, and event traceability.

Key Features

• GPS/IRIG/Atomic Synchronization Support: Accepts multiple time inputs including GPS, IRIG-B, 1PPS, and 10 MHz signals from atomic clocks.
• Sub-microsecond Accuracy: Offers time-stamping and synchronization with nanosecond precision.
• Multiple Output Options: Provides configurable outputs such as 1PPS, 10 MHz, IRIG-B, and custom digital pulses.
• PCI Bus Interface: Seamlessly integrates into PCI slots of PCs or industrial computers for real-time timecode access.
• Event Timestamping: Captures external events with extremely high temporal resolution for monitoring and diagnostics.
• Embedded Oscillator Options: Includes disciplined OCXO or TCXO for holdover stability during signal loss.
• Software APIs & SDKs: Comes with drivers and development tools for Windows and Linux environments.
• Real-Time Clock Backup: Maintains system time during shutdowns or power outages with onboard RTC and battery backup.

Technical Specifications

• Input Signals: GPS (via RS-232 or antenna), IRIG-B, 1PPS, 10 MHz
• Output Signals: IRIG-B (modulated/unmodulated), 1PPS, 10 MHz sine/square wave, programmable pulse outputs
• Time Accuracy: <100 ns to UTC (with GPS lock)
• Oscillator Options: TCXO, OCXO, or Rubidium (external)
• PCI Interface: 32-bit PCI (3.3V or 5V compatible)
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to +50°C (extended range available)
• Power Consumption: <10W
• Form Factor: Standard PCI full-height or low-profile form factor
• Software Support: Drivers for Windows, Linux, and real-time operating systems

Benefits

✅ Precision Synchronization – Ensures ultra-precise timing and frequency distribution across all system components.

✅ Versatile Integration – PCI form factor allows plug-and-play deployment in industrial PCs, servers, or embedded systems.

✅ Reliable Timekeeping – Maintains synchronization even during input signal interruptions, thanks to onboard holdover oscillators.

✅ Multi-Source Flexibility – Accepts multiple timing inputs and selects the best available source for redundancy and robustness.

✅ Future-Proof System Design – Scalable and compatible with evolving time distribution needs and technologies.

Applications

• Telecommunications Networks – Synchronize mobile base stations, central offices, and 5G infrastructure with precise UTC time.
• Broadcast Studios – Maintain frame-accurate timestamps for live content, signal processing, and satellite uplinks.
• Power Grid Management – Timestamp grid events for smart metering, fault analysis, and grid automation.
• Military and Aerospace – Ensure time coherence in radar systems, command/control centers, and satellite tracking.
• Scientific Research Facilities – Provide synchronized time for particle physics experiments, observatories, and lab instrumentation.
• Financial Trading – Comply with MiFID II and other time audit regulations by ensuring sub-microsecond timestamp accuracy on transactions.

Why Choose a PCI Time & Frequency Processor?

The PCI Time & Frequency Processor provides a seamless and scalable approach to system synchronization. Unlike external timing units, this PCI card directly integrates with your computing platform, minimizing latency and offering high-resolution access to timing functions via software APIs. Whether you need to timestamp events, synchronize clocks, or generate precision frequency outputs, this processor delivers industrial-grade performance with ease of use.

It is a critical component for building resilient, accurate, and time-aware systems in any precision-driven environment. Its modular configuration and support for multiple inputs/outputs make it ideal for both standalone and large-scale deployments.

Conclusion

The PCI Time & Frequency Processor is more than a timing card—it’s the heart of a synchronized ecosystem. Offering unbeatable accuracy, flexible integration, and rugged reliability, it empowers industries to maintain flawless coordination of operations, data flow, and system-wide integrity. As time becomes an increasingly critical asset in modern infrastructure, this processor ensures you stay aligned, accurate, and always on time.