The SyncServer product line from Symmetricom represents their top of the line time server appliances for enterprise networks. In typical use, the time servers receive and synchronize their time settings to UTC via GPS, and then in turn provide NTP time synchronization services to devices on the local network at large. According to the vendor, the high-end appliances can serve hundreds of thousands of network clients, at rates of up to 5,000 NTP packets per second.

On the input side, as already mentioned, the time servers each receive their input time and synchronization via GPS. Each can also receive input time via NTP peering; with the S100 and S250 models additionally supporting time synchronization via IRIG B, External 10MHz, or 1PPS. Finally, the S100 model can also receive an input reference via ACTS dial-up.

On the output side, each of the servers operates as Stratum 2 NTP servers, with multiple NTP protocol (2-4) and types supported; including SNTP, NTP Broadcast, NTP Peering (Client), and NTP Multicast. The S200 and S250 models additionally support NTP Manycast operation. Other output choices include Sysplex output (all three models), 1PPS and IRIG B output in the S100 and S250, and 10MHz output in the S250. Time accuracy varies slightly by model; with the S100 listing an accuracy of plus or minus 1 microsecond, and the newer S200 and S250 models boasting an accuracy of within 50 nanoseconds (<10 microsecond accuracy for NTP stamps).

The newer S200 and S250 models are especially targeted to larger, "next generation" networks, and include features not present in the S100; including 3 independent Ethernet ports (each with their own processor), a Web based interface, full numeric keypad, automatic checking for firmware upgrades, and IPV6 support. An optional, internal Rubidium atomic oscillator keeps the internal clock of the time servers accurate to 25 microseconds per year.

The new SyncServers are expected to be shipping on October 20th, with pricing starting at $3,595.

Visit the Symmetricom Web site for further information.

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