Operating Manual

Introduction

1 — Introduction

Product Overview

The purpose of the Symmetricom 5401 Airborne Disciplined Rubidium and 5402 Disciplined Rubidium Oscillator (DRO) is to provide a precise time and frequency reference for other equipment. The DRO will base this reference on a precise 1 PPS input, typically from a GPS Receiver. At the 1 PPS time signal input rollover, the DRO will measure the time difference between it and the internal Rubidium oscillator. It will continuously correct the oscillator error, smooth the GPS Receiver noise due to ephemeris and time switching errors, and provide smoothed, coherent 1 PPS time reference and a 10 MHz frequency reference signal outputs.

The DRO contains a Low Profile Rubidium Oscillator (LPRO) that is controlled by a High Resolution Disciplining assembly along with the necessary Power Supply, Buffers and Distribution Amplifiers.

The High Resolution Disciplining assembly contains the logic to discipline the Rubidium oscillator to an external 1 PPS input. This assembly also contains a 10 MHz oven oscillator that is phase locked to the Rubidium. This provides a source for low noise 10 MHz sine wave outputs.

Two 3 Channel Distribution Amplifiers are provided to output six (6) 10 MHz sine wave outputs. A 1 PPS Buffer generates six (6) 1 PPS outputs.

The DRO also has an RS232 I/O port that is used for setup, control, and to output the unit's status.

Except for the power supplies, the 5401 and 5402 are electrically identical. The power and serial RS-232 connectors are different as are the signal input and output connectors. Refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 for illustrations of the two configurations of the DRO. Details are given in Chapter 4.

In this Operating Manual, the term "DRO" is used when the information applies equally to both the Symmetricom 5401 and the Symmetricom 5402.

PN 8500-0150, Rev. A, May 2005

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Symmetricom 5401, 5402 manual Product Overview, Operating Manual Introduction

5401, 5402 specifications

The Symmetricom 5402 and 5401 are highly regarded timing and synchronization solutions designed for telecommunications and data networking applications. These devices are part of the renowned line of precision timekeeping products developed by Symmetricom, which is now known as Microchip Technology.

The Symmetricom 5402 offers advanced capabilities, including GPS and precision time protocol (PTP) synchronization. It provides an accurate and stable time reference, crucial for industries that require precise timing to ensure system integrity and communication efficiency. The 5402 supports various synchronization protocols including IEEE 1588v2, ensuring interoperability with existing systems. This allows organizations to implement cutting-edge technologies while maintaining compatibility with older infrastructure.

On the other hand, the Symmetricom 5401 serves as a more compact and economical option tailored for specific applications where full GPS capabilities may not be necessary. This unit simplifies the synchronization process while still offering reliable performance. The 5401 provides multiple outputs including T1/E1 and 10 MHz, making it versatile for different network configurations.

Both models incorporate advanced oscillator technology that ensures accuracy and stability. They have a temperature-compensated crystal oscillator (TCXO) or optional oven-controlled crystal oscillator (OCXO) that provides superior frequency stability across a wide range of operating conditions. These devices also feature high-performance phase-locked loops (PLLs), which enhance their ability to maintain synchronization over time and under varying operational environments.

Additional features include robust network management capabilities, allowing for real-time monitoring and diagnostics through a user-friendly interface. The devices are equipped with multiple input/output ports that facilitate seamless integration into existing network architectures. The Symmetricom 5402 and 5401 support both local and remote management, enabling network administrators to maintain optimal synchronization performance.

In summary, the Symmetricom 5402 and 5401 deliver reliable, high-precision timing solutions designed to meet the demands of modern telecommunications infrastructures. With their advanced synchronization technologies, versatile connectivity options, and robust performance characteristics, these devices are essential components for ensuring accurate timekeeping in any network. Whether organizations choose the feature-rich 5402 or the cost-effective 5401, they can be confident in the reliability and precision these products deliver.