Semtech introduces SyncE hybrid mode and single chip boundary clock

It delivers a complete IEEE1588v2 precision time protocol (PTP) solution that makes it possible for wireless carriers to build their backhaul networks using low cost Ethernet based wireless services. The ACS9510 is a 360pin, 20 x 20mm, 1 mm pitch multirole device that can be used to provide synchronous equipment timing source (SETS) functionality in traditional TDM equipment (TDM timing mode) as well as standards based timing for equipment used in packet switched networks (PTP grandmaster and PTP slave modes). According to Semtech, the ToPSync version 5.1 firmware release implements major advances in time alignment performance while enabling significant savings in cost. ACS9510 is a fully integrated and configurable synchronisation platform. Because of its ability to perform as a PTP master, slave or boundary clock as well as natively manage layer one clocks, it can operate in any point of the timing delivery network. Internal ITU compliant SETS functions reduce the necessity for external components, such as PLLs or frequency translators, because the ACS9510 manages all layer one sync requirements. The ToPSync software is self contained within the ACS9510 device and no real time process is required on any external cpu. The combination of embedded PLLs and algorithms makes the ACS9510 simple to integrate. "We are excited by the major advances in time alignment performance and significant cost savings brought by release 5.1. Throughout trials with tier one carriers, the innovative hybrid Sync-E/PTP algorithm performed with an accuracy better than 100nanoseconds even with low cost TCXOs," said Rich Lansdowne, director of Advanced Communications at Semtech. "Release 5.1 also allows a single ACS9510 to operate as a fully compliant IEEE 1588 boundary clock offering carriers unparalleled flexibility of deployment." The newly released ToPSync 5.1 firmware enables a single ACS9510 device to operate as a full IEEE 1588 boundary clock via two independently configurable slave and master PTP ports. Release 5.1 marks the introduction of hybrid mode, a new operation where an external clock, such as sync Ethernet 25MHz clock, is interleaved with PTP to deliver better time delivery performance than PTP alone. The AC9510 ToPSync firmware release 5.1 is available immediately as a free upgrade for ACS9510 owners.