Microchip Technology (Nasdaq: MCHP) has unveiled the TimeProvider 4500 grandmaster, a hardware timekeeping platform catering to the needs of critical infrastructure sectors such as 5G telecommunications, power utilities, and transportation.
The TimeProvider 4500 series addresses the continuous demand for higher processing speeds and accurate time sources independent of GNSS constellations like GPS, GALILEO, and QZSS. Offering network operators a terrestrial alternative, this grandmaster provides high-speed network interfaces up to 25 Gbps and ensures precise time accuracy of less than one nanosecond.
Key features of the TimeProvider 4500 grandmaster include support for very-high-capacity Precision Time Protocol (PTP) transactions, enabling higher IEEE-1588 scalability for thousands of clients. In C-band 5G deployments, where balancing range and capacity is crucial, the grandmaster facilitates serving thousands of gNodeB from a single unit, allowing for cost-effective and flexible deployments.
The clock offers flexibility by connecting to various generations of network elements, supporting 1 Gbps, 10 Gbps, or 25 Gbps network links. This is particularly significant as network element upgrades migrate towards equipment requiring a minimum of 10 Gbps, and in some cases, up to 100 Gbps.
In addressing the growing need for alternatives to GNSS, the TimeProvider 4500 grandmaster leverages existing optical network deployments, providing a cost-effective way to transfer highly accurate time over long distances. The clock features new hardware assist enhancements, including the latest digital synthesizer and Microchip’s PolarFire SoC FPGA, enabling picosecond time accuracy.
Randy Brudzinski, Vice President of Microchip’s Frequency and Time Systems Business Unit, emphasized the clock’s innovation, stating, “Microchip continues to develop new and innovative time and frequency solutions for critical infrastructure.” The TimeProvider 4500 clock delivers tighter timing accuracy in existing optical network environments without requiring costly upgrades.
Integrated with the TimePictra synchronization management solution, the TimeProvider 4500 grandmaster enables real-time monitoring and tracking of network issues. Its comprehensive Fault, Configuration, Accounting (Inventory), Performance, and Security (FCAPS) management functions, along with geographical topology and domain navigation, enhance its utility for operators.
The TimeProvider 4500 series joins Microchip’s portfolio of IEEE-1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP) grandmaster clocks, providing industry-leading performance and value. The grandmaster is now available for purchase, offering a solution for critical infrastructure upgrades.
