Public Safety
Master clock technology for 911 call centers, public safety communications, and simultaneous broadcast.
Safran offers master clock and synchronization technology for public safety radio centers across the United States. Explore how Safran time servers can synchronize your communication network – no matter the number of remote communication sites.
What is a Master Clock – Time Server & Who Is It For?
A Master Clock Time Server is a device that receives signals from satellites – and then generates a consistent time signal to be shared and distributed to other network devices. The time server transmits both the time and frequency signals time based off the precise data from the satellites. The result is that all of the equipment in the system will be synchronized so that all events can be timestamped and coordinated together.
A master clock is responsible for providing the correct time – at an extremely granular level – to support critical operations and infrastructure.
Safran master clocks and time servers are being used in applications for:
Municipal Radio Communication Centers
- For radio communication centers used by local government, law enforcement and tv stations.
Cell Phone Towers & Telecommunications
- For cell phone towers and telecommunication networks.
Data Center Facilities
- For server racks and distributed systems that all need to have precise timestamps, the timing information comes from atomic clocks on board satellites.
Public Safety
- For 911 call centers, radio communications, and cell phone towers, Safran GNSS receivers provide direct access to satellite links.
Time Synchronization Options For Public Safety Communications
| Feature | Standard Wi-Fi NTP Clock | Safran SecureSync® 2400 | White Rabbit Systems |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timing Accuracy | ±10 to 100 ms (depending on network jitter) | ±15 ns with GNSS; sub-nanosecond with optional White Rabbit card | Sub-nanosecond end-to-end over Ethernet |
| Cybersecurity Protection | Minimal; open NTP port, no encryption | Hardened OS, secure firmware, SNMPv3, HTTPS, role-based access | Encrypted transport possible; hardened Linux integration |
| Holdover Performance | None; stops when network is lost | OCXO standard; Rubidium and Chip-Scale Atomic Clock options | Depends on oscillator type; typically uses external timing |
| Network Sync Protocols | NTP only | NTP, PTP (IEEE 1588), IRIG-B, 1PPS, GNSS multi-constellation | IEEE 1588 + White Rabbit extensions over Ethernet |
| Anti-Jamming | Non-existent | High | High |
| Regulatory and NENA Compliance | Not compliant | Designed for critical infrastructure; NENA-compliant integrations | Open-source hardware/firmware; requires local validation |
| Operational Resilience | Very limited; prone to signal loss or delay | Anti-jam/spoof GNSS, internal timekeeping during outage | Operates independently of GNSS after sync lock is established |
Critical Infrastructure Needs Precise Time Synchronization
As cities grow, the need to synchronize critical network equipment for first responders and communication operators becomes even more important. Moreover, networks need to continue to run uninterrupted even amidst GPS signal interference, such as jamming and spoofing attacks.
Cyber Security For Time Servers & Network Equipment
Safran master clocks have been ruggedized and designed to operate in spite of signal interference such as jamming, spoofing, and meaconing. The 8320 Anti-Jam antenna, for example, helps to prevent jamming attacks from either intentional GPS signal interference – such as a truck passing by with a GPS jamming device inside – or intentional GPS signal interference – such as a malicious actor who points a jamming transmitter at your facility. Additionally, the SecureSync 2400 has been designed with an internal oscillator which acts as a backup time source in case there is a cyber attack or signal interference. It allows your network to stay synchronized – uninterrupted – until GPS signal can be restored. This makes the master clock time server reliable for your network and guarantees that operations will continue.
Time Servers Designed Specifically For Public Safety
When it comes to reliable, resilient timing for mission-critical PSAPs, trust SecureSync® Time Server to validate 911 event records, improve response times and facilitate interoperability between networks, systems and improve inter-agency coordination. It’s your #1 choice for Legally Traceable Time®.
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