Protect critical infrastructure networks with timing and synchronisation system

Infrastructure communication networks – 5G mobile, utilities, cable, transportation, defence and data centres – acquire and maintain signals for precise timing from GPS or other worldwide satellite constellations. These networks require redundant backup systems when GNSS signals are unavailable. The TimeProvider 4100 Release 2.3 precision timing grandmaster from Microchip Technology satisfies this demand with the industry’s latest IEEE 1588 v2.1 2019 security standard for protection of timing systems while also offering an increased level of deployment flexibility and scalability.

The solution introduces an ultra-resilient multi-client PTP optional license, offering customers up to three connections to other grandmasters in the operator’s network. This ability can be employed as a backup for time and phase input. This new option implements the latest IEEE 1588 2.1 standard majority vote mechanism to choose the best input for APTS backup protection.

Also, it offers more deployment flexibility with support for two PTP server profiles on each Ethernet port. Customers may now optimise usage of these ports with no additional hardware investments. It also enables PTP server, PTP client and in-band management to be utilised on a single port.

The solution offers increased security with support for the latest IEEE 1588 2.1 2019 standard. It includes support for architecture guidance security, which uses redundant communication paths between PTP nodes to detect tampering. It also implements out-of-band management mechanisms for detecting tampering, degradation and failures. This timing grandmaster provides complete support for AAA as well as two-factor authentication. As a software update, the solution is available for new and already deployed systems.

It can be managed by the company's TimePictra Synchronisation Management System for full FCAPS.