ibaClock
Manual
Issue 1.4
7
2
Introduction
ibaClock is a compact device for the time synchronization of several connected ibaPDA
systems.
The time base of every ibaPDA system is the time of the respective ibaPDA computer.
In case of requirements such as real time measurements or correlation of decentralized
data, distributed systems may require a synchronization of all computers.
ibaClock indicates the time base for all connected ibaPDA systems as central master
clock and ensures an exact and timely synchronized acquisition of the data. Thereby, a
precision of better than 150 ns can be reached.
For a high-precision synchronization, ibaClock receives the time signal of the GPS sat-
ellites. The functions of ibaClock are adjusted to the “Trimble
®
Acutime™ GG” and “Trim-
ble
®
Acutime™ 360” smart antennas, therefore the use of the device is exclusively pro-
vided for one of these antennas. The antennas, the suitable antenna cables and mount-
ing accessories can also be obtained at iba, see chapter 12. The length of the antenna
cable has to be indicated when placing the order.
Alternatively, ibaClock can use the time code IRIG-B as external time source. The fol-
lowing telegrams are supported, e.g. IEEE C37.118, AFNOR NF S87-500, IEEE 1344 or
B004 + B124, B005 + B125, B006 + B126, B007 + B127, see chapter 7.3.5.
The distribution of the time signal to the ibaPDA systems is made via fiber-optic cables.
For this purpose, the ibaPDA computers need a card of the ibaFOB-D-family with FO
input and output for the connection of an ibaClock device.
Beginning with firmware version v01.02.001, time synchronization with ibaClock is pos-
sible via network. The following protocols are supported: TIME protocol, DAYTIME pro-
tocol and NTP.
ibaClock has an internal clock that will carry on to set the time in case of a failure of the
GPS signal. Here, ibaClock provides a stability of < 0.150 ppm for temporary signal fail-
ures.
ibaClock can be configured comfortably via ibaPDA or the web interface.
