Timing platform improves IP backhaul networks

Semtech Corp. has announced the Timing Over Packet Synchronization (ToPSync) ACS9510 device, the first network synchronization device that enables IEEE1588v2 Precision Time Protocol (PTP) to work closely with Semtech's SONET/SDH synchronous equipment timing source (SETS) solution. The ACS9510 device is the first product in a new platform of timing solutions that responds to the needs of carriers worldwide in 3G, 4G, Long Term Evolution (LTE) and WiMAX applications.

This helps IP networks to provide time alignment between base station nodes or network switches. Because of this, using costly GPS modules and oscillators at each node may no longer be needed. Each node costs $500. The platform encourages shifting to the use of public IP networks to employ backhaul for broadband wireless base stations.

ToPSync will help customers using next-generation wireless technologies like WiMax, LTE and 4G to gain precise time alignment down to 1?s accuracy.

The ACS9510 has undergone three years of continuous performance testing by a number of carriers. "We are very pleased that, based on the stringent trials at carriers, our technology has been selected to be used in WCDMA, Gbit passive optical network, WiMAX and other products after the launch," said Rich Lansdowne, product group manager, Semtech.

The ACS9510 functions in a traditional role in the SONET/SDH network offering a high-precision synchronization solution within network elements. It may also employ the ToPSync platform technology in bringing reference clock signal transport across a carrier IP network. Regarding its PTP role, it works well as a grandmaster or a slave permitting full hybrid deployment between packet- and circuit-based networks.

ToPSync solution is compatible to packet delay variation; packet jitters and network reconfigurations to maintain the required frequency accuracy; and phase stability or full-time alignment. Its IC also incorporates a precision holdover to maintain clock accuracy whenever there is a network failure.

Key features of the ACS9510:

• Fully integrated - IEEE1588 PTP Grandmaster, PTP Slave and SONET/SDH clock (TDM Timing) solution. This integrates hardware precision time stamping with on-the-fly insertion. Powerful processor and clock recovery algorithm integrated. It has backward compatibility mode with Semtech ACS8520 SETS.

• PTP Grandmaster selection - according to Best Master Clock algorithm

• Powerful network delay analysis delivers full-time alignment in the slave over hostile networks, including Layer 2 and 3 routed.

• Dynamic adaptation to network delay variations. It is network-loading change tolerant.

• Time alignment performance better than ±2?s on a managed five-switch GbE network under G.826120 test conditions.

• Frequency alignment performance better than ±10ppb on a managed five-switch GbE network under G.826120 test conditions.

• Standard compliance - IEEE 1588 ver. 213, G.826120