APX-TC100 PCIe Timing Synchronization Card
High-Precision PCIe Timing Synchronization for PTP-Based Systems
The APX-TC100 PCIe Timing Synchronization Card is a highly integrated PCIe timing card combining IEEE 1588 PTP synchronization with a high-stability OCXO frequency reference.
The card receives PTP synchronization signals through an Ethernet network, evaluates the validity of the timing reference, and uses the PTP signal to discipline the internal OCXO. If the PTP signal is temporarily lost, the high-stability OCXO continues to provide a stable timing reference, helping maintain continuous time and frequency synchronization for the host computer system.
The APX-TC100 provides 1PPS and TOD timing outputs and is designed for computer systems, instruments, broadcast systems, communication equipment, and other applications requiring high-precision time and frequency references.
Key Features
IEEE 1588 PTP Synchronization
The APX-TC100 integrates a dedicated PTP processing unit supporting:
- IEEE 1588-2008 / PTP v2.0
- Compatibility with PTP v1.0
- Hardware timestamping
- 10/100M adaptive Ethernet interface
- Real-time operating system
The card can receive PTP timing information directly through the network and synchronize its internal timing reference.
High-Stability OCXO Holdover
An integrated high-stability OCXO provides frequency stability when the external PTP reference is temporarily unavailable.
The PTP signal disciplines the internal OCXO during normal operation. When PTP synchronization is interrupted, the OCXO continues to provide the timing reference for the host system.
The OCXO has a specified daily aging rate of 5 × 10⁻¹⁰.
High-Precision Network Synchronization
In a direct point-to-point network environment, the APX-TC100 supports synchronization accuracy of better than 300 ns according to the specified application conditions.
This makes the card suitable for systems requiring precise time synchronization between network-connected equipment and computer platforms.
Precision Timing Outputs
The APX-TC100 provides timing outputs for integration with computer systems and external equipment.
Available outputs include:
- 1PPS
- TOD
- RS232-level TOD timing information
The 1PPS output provides a specified accuracy of ≤500 ns after 24 hours of synchronization with the server PTP reference.
TOD Time Information
The TOD interface supports multiple time-data formats, including:
- SYS
- GPRMC
- NMEA0183-compatible format
- Optional China Mobile format according to the source configuration
The TOD interface uses 9600 baud serial communication.
Hardware Real-Time Clock
The APX-TC100 integrates a high-precision hardware real-time clock.
The system obtains real-time information from the hardware RTC, providing a high-precision time reference for the host computer and supporting accurate data processing, system maintenance, and fault analysis.
Applications
The APX-TC100 is designed for systems requiring high-precision time and frequency synchronization.
Typical applications include:
- Precision instruments
- Measurement and test equipment
- Digital broadcasting systems
- DVB systems
- DAB systems
- CMMB systems
- WiMAX systems
- CDMA systems
- Computer timing systems
- Network-based timing equipment
- Precision time and frequency reference systems
Technical Specifications
PTP Input
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|
| PTP Input | 1 channel |
| Interface | RJ45 |
| Ethernet | 10/100M adaptive |
| Protocol | IEEE 1588-2008 / PTP v2.0 |
| PTP Compatibility | PTP v1.0 |
| Timestamping | Hardware timestamping |
| Point-to-Point Synchronization | Better than 300 ns |
1PPS Output
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|
| Quantity | 1 |
| Interface | SMA-K |
| Pulse Width | 500 ms |
| Accuracy | ≤500 ns after 24-hour PTP synchronization |
| Indication | 1PPS working indicator |
TOD Output
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|
| Quantity | 1 |
| Interface | Micro USB |
| Electrical Level | RS232 |
| Supported Formats | SYS / GPRMC |
| Baud Rate | 9600 |
| Serial Format | 8-N-1 |
OCXO
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|
| Reference | High-stability OCXO |
| Daily Aging Rate | 5 × 10⁻¹⁰ |
| Holdover | Supported during temporary PTP signal loss |
Physical & Environmental Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|
| Form Factor | PCIe |
| Weight | Approx. 500 g |
| Power Supply | Standard PCIe slot power |
| Startup Power | <7 w=""> |
| Operating Power | <3.6 w=""> |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C to +50°C |
| Storage Temperature | -25°C to +85°C |
| Humidity | 95%, non-condensing |
Status Indicators
The APX-TC100 provides two front-panel indicators:
- LOCK indicator — indicates synchronization/lock status
- 1PPS indicator — indicates 1PPS operating status
These indicators provide a simple visual indication of the card's synchronization and timing output status.
Standard Configuration
The standard APX-TC100 package includes:
- 1 × APX-TC100 PCIe Timing Synchronization Card
- 1 × Electronic User Manual
OEM & Custom Configuration
The APX-TC100 can be considered for project-based integration where PCIe-based PTP synchronization and local high-stability timing are required.
For specific interface, firmware, timing-format, or system-integration requirements, APEX can evaluate OEM and customization requirements based on the project application.
