The integration of Microchip's High-Performance Boundary Clock (HP-BC) operating mode into the Gateway Clock mode of the TimeProvider 4100 enables compatibility with the latest ITU-T Class C and D high-precision clock standards for boundaries. These standards ensure extremely accurate time transfer across optical networks, allowing operators to utilize DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing) technology instead of dedicated fiber. Release 2.0 meets the bandwidth requirements of next-generation network devices through an optional expansion module that provides 10 GE interfaces. New monitoring features allow service providers to understand how time and phase are affected by network elements. The PTP client capacity has been increased to 790 to provide the scalability required for deploying layer-aggregate mobile networks and the new DOCSIS 3.1 Remote-PHY cable architectures.
For service providers needing to deploy more compact PTP 1588 v2 Grandmasters to fewer base stations located closer to the network edge, Microchip is also introducing Release 3.0 within its IGM (Integrated GNSS Master) family. IGM 3.0 incorporates an IEEE-1588v2 PTP Grandmaster, as well as a GNSS receiver and antenna, to simplify indoor and outdoor installations.
These three new features in IGM 3.0 deliver precise time and phase accuracy, along with new capabilities thanks to the IGM Plus hardware models with advanced GNSS oscillators and receivers. New oscillator options enhance synchronization performance, and the improved receiver increases signal acquisition speed and enhances security by accessing more GNSS constellations simultaneously. The receiver upgrade option supports GPS, Galileo (Europe), QZSS (Japan), and GLONASS, and is Beidou-ready. The IGM 3.0 software includes increased PTP capacity for up to 60 clients, as well as IPv6 support for traffic and management flows.
TimeProvider 4100 Release 2.0 and IGM Release 3.0 are managed with TimePictra®, the company's centralized and unified management platform for its extensive family of precision timing systems. Microchip's TimeProvider 4100 2.0 and IGM 3.0 1588v2 PTP Grandmasters are now available. The TimeProvider 4100 2.0 expansion module and the three IGM Plus models with enhanced features can be purchased separately. Customers who sign an annual maintenance and support agreement can load software options and updates for TimeProvider 4100 2.0 onto existing hardware models. The company also offers a variety of support services, including hardware and software repair, maintenance, and upgrades, as well as options to add new capabilities through hardware modules and software licenses.
