GatesAir brings timing and signal reference generator to IBC2023

GatesAir will bring its timing and signal reference solution for broadcast and telecom facilities to IBC2023. The Maxiva GNSS-PTP is a standalone 1RU solution with a sophisticated switching algorithm that, according to the company, assures high-precision 10MHz and 1 PPS reference signals to mission-critical components in the signal chain, including transmitters, networking, and studio equipment. The company adds that the Maxiva GNSS-PTP brings strong value to national broadcast and network operators operating headends with multiple transmitters. 

The Maxiva GNSS-PTP speaks to modern navigation technologies used in second-generation global navigation satellite systems, and supports all major global satellite constellations (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS). Each GNSS-PTP device feeds up to twelve 10 MHz and 1 PPS references in the technology infrastructure, removing the need to integrate a standalone timing source in each component. This substantially reduces equipment costs and installation timelines while providing engineers with a single, yet highly redundant, point of failure. 

GatesAir says the system assures precise timing and frequency generation because of the GNSS-PTP’s high level of redundancy. The product design includes redundant AC power supplies with built-in battery backup for “always-on” protection. Diverse timing sources include redundant GNSS receivers incorporating OCXO temperature control to prevent frequency changes. Timing sources include a PTP hardware module and an external 10 MHz and 1 PPS reference. Built-in switching control logic ensures reliability and flexibility for always selecting the highest priority source as a reference. 

PTP support

Support for the Precision Time Protocol v2 (PTP) adds further reliability and flexibility for customers. As a modular option, users can prioritize PTP as a facility’s primary source or configure PTP as a backup to one of the GNSS receivers. The PTP module can function as a master or slave and, like the unit’s GNSS receivers, provide reliable timing and frequency reference to 12 external devices.

GatesAir says it has further simplified the user experience with an integrated web interface to select frequency bands easily and flexibly for each GNSS system and configure timing source selection in automatic and manual modes. The user interface also offers helpful visual aids, including detailed tracking maps and tables, satellite status and signal quality. 

“GatesAir has strong experience in the area of timing and synchronization for video, audio and telecom networks with our Intraplex SynchroCast solutions, including the single-frequency networks that our customers are increasingly deploying for FM radio and digital TV delivery,” said Keyur Parikh, vice president of engineering at GatesAir. “The Maxiva GNSS-PTP represents a new era in timing reliability, network redundancy and cost reduction for GatesAir and giving our customers a proven and reliable solution that will work in any broadcast studio, RF plant and telco facility worldwide.”

GatesAir exhibits at Stand 8.C82.