Spectracom TSync-PCIe User Manual

TSync-PCIe

TSync-PCIe TIMECODEPROCESSOR

with optional GNSS RECEIVER

User Manual

Part number: 1191-5000-0050

Revision: J

Date: May 20, 2014

www.spectracomcorp.com

© 2011 – 2014 Spectracom Corp. All rights reserved.

The information in this document has been carefully reviewed and is
believed to be accurate and up- to- date. This User Guide is subject to
change without notice. For the most current version of this documentation,
please see our web site at www.spectracomcorp.com.

Spectracom reserves the right to make changes to the product described in
this document at any time and without notice. Any software that may be
provided with the product described in this document is furnished under a
license agreement or nondisclosure agreement. The software may be used
or copied only in accordance with the terms of those agreements.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval sys
tem, or transmitted in any form or any means electronic or mechanical,
including photocopying and recording for any purpose other than the pur
chaser's personal use without the written permission of Spectracom Corp.

Other products and companies referred to herein are trademarks or
registered trademarks of their respective companies or mark holders.

Spectracom Corp.

• 1565 Jefferson Road, Suite 460, Rochester, N Y 14623 USA

• 6A Beechwood Chineham Pa rk, Lime Tree Wa y, B asingstoke, Ha mpshire RG24 8WA, United Kingd om

• Room 208 , N o. 3 Zhong Guan Village South Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing 100081, China

• 3,A venue du Canada, 91974 Les Ulis Cedex, Fra nce

Questions or comments regarding this User Guide?

è E-mail: [e-mail]

User Manual TSync-PCIe I

SPECTRACOM LIMITED WARRANTY

Five Year Limited Warranty

Spectracom, a business of the Orolia Group,
warrants each new standard product to be
free from defects in material, and work
manship for five years after shipment in most
countries where these products are sold,
EXCEPT AS NOTED BELOW (the “Warranty
Period” and "Country Variances").

Warranty Exceptions

This warranty shall not apply if the product is
used contrary to the instructions in its manual
or is otherwise subjected to misuse, abnormal
operations, accident, lightning or transient
surge, or repairs or modifications not per
formed by Spectracom authorized personnel.
Items with a variance to the Five Year War
ranty Period are as follows:

90 Days Warranty

TimeKeeper Software

One Year Limited Warranty

Timeview Analog Clock
Path Align-R Products
Bus-level Timing Boards
IRIG-B Distribution Amplifiers

Two Year Limited Warranty

Rubidium Oscillators
Epsilon Board EBO3
Epsilon Clock 1S, 2S/2T, 3S, 31M
Epsilon SSU
Power Adaptors
Digital and IP/POE Clocks
WiSync Wireless Clock Systems and IPSync
IP Clocks

Rapco 1804, 2804, 186x, 187x, 188x,
189x, 2016, 900 series

Three Year Limited Warranty

Pendulum Test & Measurement Products GPS­12R, CNT-9x, 6688/6689, GPS-88/89, DA­35/36, GPS/GNSS Simulators

Country Variances

All Spectracom products sold in India have a
one year warranty.

Warranty Exclusions

Batteries, fuses, or other material contained
in a product normally consumed in oper
ation.
Shipping and handling, labor & service fees
EXCEPT FOR THE LIMITED WARRANTY
STATED ABOVE, SPECTRACOM DISCLAIMS
ALL WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND WITH
REGARD TO SPECTRACOM PRODUCTS OR
OTHER MATERIALS PROVIDED BY
SPECTRACOM, INCLUDING WITHOUT
LIMITATION ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OR
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
Spectracom shall have no liability or respons
ibility to the original customer or any other
party with respect to any liability, loss, or
damage caused directly or indirectly by an
Spectracom product, material, or software
sold or provided by Spectracom, replace
ment parts or units, or services provided,
including but not limited to any interruption of
service, excess charges resulting from mal
functions of hardware or software, loss of
business or anticipatory profits resulting from
the use or operation of the Spectracom
product or software, whatsoever or

II User Manual TSync-PCIe

howsoever caused. In no event shall
Spectracom be liable for any direct,
indirect, special or consequential dam
ages whether the claims are grounded in
contract, tort (including negligence), or
strict liability.

Extended Warranty Coverage

Extended warranties can be purchased
for additional periods beyond the stand
ard warranty. Contact Spectracom no
later than the last year of the standard
warranty for extended coverage.

Warranty Claims

Spectracom’s obligation under this war
ranty is limited to the cost of in-factory
repair or replacement, at Spectracom’s
option, of the defective product or the
product’s defective component. Spec
tracom’s Warranty does not cover any
costs for installation, reinstallation,
removal or shipping and handling costs
of any warranted product. If in Spec
tracom’s sole judgment, the defect is not
covered by the Spectracom Limited War
ranty, unless notified to the contrary in
advance by customer, Spectracom will
make the repairs or replace components
and charge its then current price, which
the customer agrees to pay.
In all cases, the customer is responsible
for all shipping and handling expenses
in returning product to Spectracom for
repair or evaluation. Spectracom will
pay for standard return shipment via
common carrier. Expediting or special
delivery fees will be the responsibility of
the customer.

work, our technical support department
be contacted to provide troubleshooting
assistance while the equipment is still
installed. If equipment is returned without
first contacting the support department
and “no problems are found” during the
repair work, an evaluation fee may be
charged.
Spectracom shall not have any warranty
obligations if the procedure for warranty
claims is not followed. Customer must
notify Spectracom of a claim, with com
plete information regarding the claimed
defect. A Return Authorization (RMA)
Number issued by Spectracom is
required for all returns.
Returned products must be returned with
a description of the claimed defect, the
RMA number, and the name and contact
information of the individual to be con
tacted if additional information is
required by Spectracom. Products being
returned on an RMA must be properly
packaged with transportation charges
prepaid.

Warranty Procedure

Spectracom highly recommends that
prior to returning equipment for service

User Manual TSync-PCIe III

IV User Manual TSync-PCIe

CHAPTER 1

Safety and Compliance 1

1.1 Safety Symbols 2

1.2 About Safety 2

1.2.1 Basic Responsibilities 2

1.2.2 Other Safety Tips 3

1.3 Compliance 3

CHAPTER 2

Overview 5

2.1 General Information about GPS and GNSS 6

2.2 Spectracom GNSS Receiver 6

2.3 Unpacking 7

2.4 Product Inventory 7

2.5 Support 8

CHAPTER 3

CONTENTS

Specifications 9

3.1 General Specifications 10

3.2 PCIe Power 10

3.3 IRIG AM Input 10

3.4 IRIG DCLS Input 10

3.5 IRIG AM Output 10

3.6 IRIG DCLS Output 11

3.7 10-MHz Output 11

3.8 External 1PPS Input 12

3.9 1PPS Output 12

3.10 GPIO Inputs 13

3.11 GPIO Outputs 13

User Manual TSync-PCIe • TABLE OF CONTENTS

V

3.12 GNSS Receiver Specifications 13

3.12.1 RF Connector, Internal GNSS Receiver 14

3.12.2 Electrical Characteristics, GNSS RF Signal 14

3.13 External GNSS Receiver 14

3.13.1 Connector 14

3.13.2 Electrical Characteristics, Board to Receiver Transmission 14

3.13.3 Electrical Characteristics, Receiver to Board Transmission 14

3.13.4 Electrical Characteristics, Receiver Power 15

3.14 Environmental Specifications 15

CHAPTER 4

Pinouts 17

4.1 Timing Connector Pinout 18

4.2 External GNSS Connector Pinout 19

CHAPTER 5

Installation 21

5.1 GNSS Antenna 22

5.2 Changing the Board Bracket 22

5.3 Status LEDs 24

CHAPTER 6

Theory of Operation 27

6.1 Input References 28

6.1.1 GNSS Receivers as Input References 28

6.1.2 IRIG Inputs 28

6.1.3 External 1PPS Reference 30

6.1.4 Built-in References 30

6.2 Input Reference Monitor 30

6.3 Clock Subsystem 31

6.4 Output References 32

6.4.1 IRIG Output 32

6.4.2 10-MHz Sine Wave Output 33

6.4.3 1PPS Output 33

VI

User Manual TSync-PCIe • TABLE OF CONTENTS

6.5 General Purpose Input/Output 34

6.5.1 Programmable Inputs 34

6.5.2 Programmable Outputs 34

6.6 System Status 34

6.7 LEDs 35

6.8 Upgrade 35

6.9 Interrupts 35

6.9.1 Interrupt Descriptions 35

CHAPTER 7

Options and Accessories 37

7.1 Options 38

7.2 Accessories 38

7.2.1 Adapter Cable, Timing Interface 38

7.2.2 Premium Breakout Cable 39

7.2.3 Basic Breakout Cable 41

7.2.4 GNSS Cables 43

CHAPTER 8

Driver Support 45

APPENDIX

Appendix i

INDEX

User Manual TSync-PCIe • TABLE OF CONTENTS

VII

BLANK PAGE.

VIII

User Manual TSync-PCIe • TABLE OF CONTENTS

Safety and Compliance

This Kapitel contains information that is relevant not only for your
personal safety, but can also help prevent potential damage when
working with the equipment. Also included in this chapter is inform
ation about legal compliance, and pertinent technical standards to
which this product adheres.

Figure 1-1: Do not ignore the Safety Instructions

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 1 • Instruction Manual XYZ

This Chapter includes the following topics:

1.1 Safety Symbols 2

1.2 About Safety 2

1.2.1 Basic Responsibilities 2

1.2.2 Other Safety Tips 3

1.3 Compliance 3

1

Symbol Signal word Definition

DANGER!

Potentially dangerous situation which may lead to personal
injury or death!
Follow the instructions closely.

CAUTION!

Potential equipment damage or destruction! Follow the instruc
tions closely.

NOTE

Tips and other useful or important information.

ESD

Risk of ElectroStatic Discharge! Avoid potential equipment
damage by following ESD Best Practices.

CHASSIS GROUND

Never remove or loosen cables or screws serving as chassis
ground to prevent potentially dangerous situations.

Analog Ground

Do not tamper with Analog Ground, as this can lead to
impaired functionality of the equipment.

Recycle

Recycle the mentioned components at their end of life. Follow
local laws.

1.1 Safety Symbols

1.1 Safety Symbols

The following symbols are used in Spectracom technical documentation.

Table 1-1:

1.2 About Safety

This product has been designed and built in accordance with state-of-the-art standards and the
recognized safety rules. Nevertheless, its use may constitute a risk to the operator or install
ation/maintenance personnel, if used under conditions that must be deemed unsafe, or for pur
poses other than the product's designated use, which is described in the introductory technical
chapters of this guide.

Spectracom safety symbols

1.2.1 Basic Responsibilities

The equipment must only be used in technically perfect condition. Check components for
damage prior to installation. Also check for loose or scorched cables on other nearby

2

CHAPTER 1 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

equipment.

Make sure you possess the professional skills, and have received the training necessary
for the type of work you are about to perform (for example

vention

Do not modify the equipment, and use only spare parts authorized by Spectracom.

Always follow the instructions set out in this guide.

Observe generally applicable legal and other local mandatory regulations.

.)

1.2.2 Other Safety Tips

Keep these instructions at hand, near the place of use. Keep your workplace tidy. Apply tech
nical common sense: If you suspect that it is unsafe to use the product, do the following:

Disconnect the supply voltage from the (main) unit, e.g. by unplugging the line
cord.

Clearly mark the equipment to prevent its further operation.

1.3 Compliance

Best Practices in ESD pre

1.3 Compliance

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the following standards:

Safety:

EN-60950-1:2006/A1:2010 Safety of Information Technology Equipment

EMC:

CISPR 11 (2003): Radiated and Conducted Emissions
EN-61236-1: 2006 Consisting of:

EN61000-3-2 (2000): Harmonic Current Emissions
EN61000-3-3 (2002): Voltage Fluctuations and Flicker in Low Voltage
EN61000-4-2 (2001): Electrostatic Discharge Immunity
EN61000-4-3 (2002): Radiated Electric Field Immunity
EN61000-4-4 (2004): Electric Fast Transit Burst Immunity
EN61000-4-5 (2001): High Voltage Surge Immunity
EN61000-4-6 (2003): RF Common Mode Immunity
EN61000-4-11 (2004): Voltage Dip and Interrupt Immunity

Supplementary Information

CHAPTER 1 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

3

1.3 Compliance

This product complies with the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC and
the EMC Directive 2004/108/EC, and with the European Union Directive 2002/95/EC on
the Restriction of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS).

Electro-magnetic compliance

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable pro
tection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial envir
onment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause
harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at
his/her own expense.

Underwriters Laboratory (UL)

Underwriters Laboratory (UL) has not tested the performance or reliability of the Global Pos
itioning System (GPS) hardware, operating software, or other aspects of this product. UL has
only tested for fire, shock, or casualties as outlined in UL’s Standard(s) for Safety for Inform
ation Technology Equipment, UL60950-1. UL Certification does not cover the performance or
reliability of the GPS hardware and GPS operating software.

UL MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES, OR CERTIFICATIONS WHATSOEVER REGARDING
THE PERFORMANCE OR RELIABILITY OF ANY GPS RELATED FUNCTIONS OF THIS PRODUCT.

4

CHAPTER 1 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

Overview

This overview provides general information about fundamental tech
nical concepts pertaining to the TSync-PCIe board, as well as scope
of delivery, and support information.

This Chapter includes the following topics:

2.1 General Information about GPS and GNSS 6

2.2 Spectracom GNSS Receiver 6

2.3 Unpacking 7

2.4 Product Inventory 7

2.5 Support 8

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 2 • Instruction Manual XYZ

5

2.1 General Information about GPS and GNSS

The TSync-PCIe board with optional internal GNSS receiver is a complete synchronized time
code processor package that supports multiple prioritized timing inputs. When an input is lost,
the unit automatically switches to the next input in order of priority.

The disciplined onboard oscillator is phase-locked to an external timing input, providing 5ns
resolution time. This 10-MHz oscillator, central to the TSync-PCIe timing functions, uses the last
known reference to increment (“freewheel”) in the absence of a timing input.

The TSync-PCIe generates an IRIG AM and DCLS output pair, as well as 10-MHz sine wave and
1PPS outputs.

The board’s four programmable inputs may be used as event capture inputs, dedicated to your
time-tagging applications. Four user-programmable alarm and frequency outputs are also
provided. Programmable output functions include a periodic pulse or “heartbeat,” square
wave, and programmable start/stop time “alarm” output.

Key to the TSync-PCIe's functionality is the ability to generate interrupts. Using one of the many
available Spectracom driver packages, you may configure your card using interrupt-driven
algorithms to support your unique applications.

2.1 General Information about GPS and GNSS

The United States government operates a set of approximately 32 satellites, collectively known
as the "GPS Constellation" or "GPS Satellites." Each satellite has an internal atomic clock and
transmits a signal specifying the time and satellite position. On the ground, the GPS receiver
determines its position (longitude, latitude and elevation) and the time by decoding the signals
simultaneously from at least four of the GPS satellites. Each satellite transmits a signal in the L1
band at a frequency of 1575.42MHz. When power is first applied, the GPS receiver begins
searching for the satellites. This process can take a few minutes, as the receiver iteratively loc
ates satellites, refines its position, and determines for which satellites to search.

The GPS receiver retains the last known position when the power is switched off. This results in
faster satellite acquisition the next time it is switched on. If the antenna has been moved more
than a few miles, however, acquisition time will be slightly longer because it must first re- com
pute the position.

The US military has adopted the selective availability anti-spoofing module (SAASM) for all
new GPS deployments. SAASM GPS receivers make use of encrypted signals transmitted via L1
and L2 frequencies. Only authorized users can use SAASM GPS receivers.

This unit is capable of using other Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) alongside, or
instead of, GPS: The Russian GLONASS system is fully operational with 24satellites each trans
mitting at a frequency in the L1 band between 1598and 1606MHz. This GPS/GLONASS fre
quency diversity offers improved performance in some environments when using dual-mode
GPS+GLONASS receivers. Other benefits are system redundancy and the availability of addi
tional satellites when using GPS and GLONASS together.

2.2 Spectracom GNSS Receiver

This TSync-PCIe system is available with an optional integrated GNSS receiver.

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CHAPTER 2 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

2.3 Unpacking

The board supplies 5VDC through the receiver module to the external antenna via the coaxial
cable (antenna and cable are sold separately).

The unit can also be operated with an external GNSS receiver (i.e., the receiver is built into the
antenna housing). In this case, the board supplies 12VDC to the receiver/antenna through its
data communications cable.

NOTE – The GNSS receiver and the Spectracom GNSS antenna are compatible

with GLONASS. Utilizing this functionality does not require any additional setup
by the user. In this manual, references to GPS also refer to GLONASS, unless
stated otherwise.

NOTE – The TSync board is compatible with a SAASM receiver for authorized

users. Instructions specific to SAASM operation are provided in a spearate
manual. The SAASM receiver is not compatible with GLONASS.

2.3 Unpacking

Unpack the equipment and inspect it for damage. If any equipment has been damaged in
transit, or you experience any problems during installation and configuration of your Spec
tracom product, please contact your closest Spectracom Customer Service Center (contact
information see "Support" on the next page.)

Caution – Electronic equipment is sensitive to Electrostatic Discharge (ESD).

Observe all ESD precautions and safeguards when handling the unit.

2.4 Product Inventory

Before installing the board, please verify that all material ordered has been received:
All boards are shipped with a break-out cable and a CD containing system drivers, and this

user manual.
Boards equipped with internal GNSS receivers are shipped with an SMA-to-Type-N-RF adapter

cable.
Boards equipped with an external GNSS receiver are shipped with a 100-foot antenna cable

and a mini-DIN to DB-15 adapter cable.
Extension cables for the external GNSS receiver are available in 100-foot lengths. The max

imum total length is 500feet. The connectors on the extension cables are not weatherproof:

CHAPTER 2 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

7

Country Location Phone

USA Rochester, NY +1.585.321.5800

France Les Ulis, Cedex [phone]

UK Basingstoke, Hampshire [phone]

2.5 Support

Only the first 100 feet can be outdoors. The cable consists of several twisted pairs (not the
coaxial cable) and a foil shield.

Should there be any discrepancy between items ordered and items shipped and received,
please contact your closest Spectracom Customer Service Center.

2.5 Support

Table 2-1:

Additional contact information can be found on the Spectracom website:

Customer service contact information

http://www.spectracomcorp.com/Contact

NOTE – Should there be a need to return equipment to Spectracom, it must be

shipped in its original packing material. Save all packaging material for this pur
pose.

8

CHAPTER 2 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

Specifications

This Chapter includes the following topics:

3.1 General Specifications 10

3.2 PCIe Power 10

3.3 IRIG AM Input 10

3.4 IRIG DCLS Input 10

3.5 IRIG AM Output 10

3.6 IRIG DCLS Output 11

3.7 10-MHz Output 11

3.8 External 1PPS Input 12

3.9 1PPS Output 12

3.10 GPIO Inputs 13

3.11 GPIO Outputs 13

3.12 GNSS Receiver Specifications 13

3.12.1 RF Connector, Internal GNSS Receiver 14

3.12.2 Electrical Characteristics, GNSS RF Signal14

3.13 External GNSS Receiver 14

3.13.1 Connector 14

3.13.2 Electrical Characteristics, Board to
Receiver Transmission 14

3.13.3 Electrical Characteristics, Receiver to
Board Transmission 14

3.13.4 Electrical Characteristics, Receiver Power 15

3.14 Environmental Specifications 15

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 3 • Instruction Manual XYZ

9

3.1 General Specifications

3.1 General Specifications

3.2 PCIe Power

+3.3 V ±5%, 0.7 A typical

+12 V ±8%, 0.2 A typical

3.3 IRIG AM Input

IRIG AM input at timing interface connector

Accepts IRIG Formats A, B, G; NASA36; IEEE 1344

Amplitude: 500mV

Modulation ratio: 2:1minimum, 6:1maximum

Input impedance: 10k-ohm minimum

DC Common Mode Voltage: ±150VDC maximum

Input Stability: Better than 100 ppm

3.4 IRIG DCLS Input

IRIG DCLS Input at timing interface connector

Accepts IRIG formats A, B, G; NASA36; IEEE 1344 pulse width codes (does not accept
Manchester modulated codes)

RS-485 differential input: –7V to +12V common mode voltage input range, 200mVp-p
differential voltage threshold

Single-ended input:

+1.3V

+1.45V

VIL min

VIL typ

to 10V

p-p

, +2V

, +1.85V

p-p

VIH max

VIH typ

3.5 IRIG AM Output

IRIG AM output at timing interface connector

Outputs formats A, B, E (100Hz, 1KHz), G; NASA36; IEEE 1344

10

CHAPTER 3 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

Amplitude:

TCXO OCXO

Accuracy

(average over 24 hours when GNSS
locked)

1x10

-11

5x10

-12

Medium term stability

(without CPS after 2 weeks of GNSS
lock)

1x10-8/ day 2x10-9/ day

Phase noise (dBc/Hz)

3.6 IRIG DCLS Output

0.5V

1V

p-p

to 6V

p-p

to 12V

Output impedance: 50 ohm nominal

Output load: 50 ohm minimum

Modulation ratio: 3:1 nominal

Accuracy: ±2 to 200 microseconds (IRIG-format dependent)

3.6 IRIG DCLS Output

IRIG DCLS output at timing interface connector

Outputs formats A, B, E, G; NASA36; IEEE 1344 pulse width codes (does not generate
Manchester modulated codes)

RS-485 differential signal:

1.8V

1.5V

Single-ended amplitude (100 Ohm load):

0.5V VOLmax, +2.5 V VOHmin (TTL compatible)

common mode output voltage (RS-485 compatible)

max

to 3.3V max differential output voltage swing

min

into 50 ohms, user settable

p-p

into > 600 ohms

p-p

3.7 10-MHz Output

CHAPTER 3 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

10-MHz sine wave output from oscillator

Output impedance: 50 ohm nominal

Output load: 50 ohm minimum

Output harmonics: < -40 dBc

Output spurious: < –70 dBc

11

TCXO OCXO

@1Hz — –85

@10Hz — –113

@100Hz –110 –120

@1KHz –135 –140

@10KHz –140 –150

Signal wave form & levels:

+13 dBm into 50 ohm, ±3dB

TCXO OCXO

Accuracy to UTC

(1-sigma locked to GPS)

±50 ns ±50 ns

Holdover

(constant temp after 2 weeks of GNSS lock)

3.8 External 1PPS Input

Table 3-1:

10-MHz output specifications

3.8 External 1PPS Input

External 1PPS reference input to timing connector

1Hz pulse,

0V to +5.5V input range, +0.8V

Input impedance <150pF capacitive

rising edgeorfalling edge active

100nsec. minimum pulse width

3.9 1PPS Output

1PPS output at timing interface connector

1 Hz pulse,

rising edgeorfalling edge active

40 ns to 900 ms active pulse width (selectable, 200 ms default)

, +2.0V

VIL

(selectable)

VIH

(selectable)

Rise time: <10 ns

Signal level: TTL compatible, 4.3V

Accuracy:

Positive edge within ±50 nanoseconds of UTC when locked to a valid 1PPS input
reference

12

, base-to-peak into 50ohms

min

CHAPTER 3 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

TCXO OCXO

After 4 hours 12 μs 3 μs

After 24 hours 450 μs 100 μs

3.10 GPIO Inputs

Table 3-2:

1PPS output specifications

3.10 GPIO Inputs

GPIO inputs to timing connector

50ns active pulse width minimum

50ns minimum between pulses

0V to +5.5V input range, +0.8V

Input impedance <150pF capacitive

3.11 GPIO Outputs

GPIO outputs from timing connector

Pulse output: 50ns to 900ms active pulse width

Square wave output:

100ns to 20 second period

, +2.0V

VIL

VIH

3.12 GNSS Receiver Specifications

The following specifications apply to both internal, and external GNSS receivers:

CHAPTER 3 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

50ns to 900ms active pulse width

Amplitude: TTL compatible, 4.3V

Acquisition time: <4 minutes from a cold start

Re-acquisition time: <2 sec (90%)

Frequency:

GPS L1 (1575.42 MHz)

GLONASS L1 (1602 MHz)

Satellites tracked: up to 32 simultaneously

Sync to UTC: within ±15 ns to GPS/UTC (1 sigma) (stationary)

, base-to-peak into 50ohms

min

13

3.13 External GNSS Receiver

Accuracy horizontal position: <6 meters (50%) <9 meters (90%)

Accuracy altitude position: <11 meters (50%) <18 meters (90%)

3.12.1 RF Connector, Internal GNSS Receiver

The internal GNSS RFconnector supports the RFconnection between the internal GNSS
receiver and an external L1 antenna. It consists of a female SMA connector. A short male SMA
to female N cable made from RG-316 coax is provided to connect to the antenna RF cable.

NOTE – The provided cable should be used instead of an adapter. This relieves

strain on the connectors.

3.12.2 Electrical Characteristics, GNSS RF Signal

L1 GPS/GLONASS signals from antenna to on-board GNSS receiver

30mA @ +5V (±10%) provided to power antenna

3.13 External GNSS Receiver

3.13.1 Connector

A High-Density DB-15 connector is used to connect the external antenna (with its built-in GNSS
receiver) to the board.

3.13.2 Electrical Characteristics, Board to Receiver Transmission

RS-485 Differential Signal

+1.5 V to +2 V Common Mode Output Voltage

1.5 V min to 3.3 V max Differential Output Voltage Swing

3.13.3 Electrical Characteristics, Receiver to Board Transmission

RS-485 Differential Input

–7 V to +12 V common mode voltage input range, 200 mV
threshold

p-p

differntial voltage

14

CHAPTER 3 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

3.13.4 Electrical Characteristics, Receiver Power

50 mA @ 12 V provided to power antenna

3.14 Environmental Specifications

Temperature:

Operating: –40°C to 75°C (–40°F to 167°F)

Storage: –40°C to 85°C (-–0°F to 185°F)

Humidity: Operating and storage: 5% to 95% RH, non-condensing

Altitude: Operating: Up to 10,000 feet

Storage: Supports commercial shipping altitudes

3.14 Environmental Specifications

CHAPTER 3 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

15

3.14 Environmental Specifications

BLANK PAGE.

16

CHAPTER 3 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

Pinouts

This Chapter includes the following topics:

4.1 Timing Connector Pinout 18

4.2 External GNSS Connector Pinout 19

CHAPTER 4

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17

Pin Signal Pin Signal

1 GPIO Output 2 14 GPIO Output 3

2 Ground 15 Ground

3 GPIO Output 0 16 GPIO Output 1

4 GPIO Input 2 17 GPIO Input 3

5 Ground 18 Ground

6 GPIO Input 0 19 GPIO Input 1

7 External 1PPS Input 20 1PPS Output

8 Ground 21 Ground

9 IRIG AM Output 22 10-MHz Output

4.1 Timing Connector Pinout

The illustration below shows the functional elements of the TSync-PCIe card:

Figure 4-1: TSync-PCIe board

The timing interface connector supports all of the input and output references, and GPIO. It con
sists of a 25-pin Micro D-sub plug.

4.1 Timing Connector Pinout

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CHAPTER 4 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

Pin Signal Pin Signal

10 IRIG AM Input + 23 Ground

11 IRIG AM Input - 24 IRIG DCLS Input -

12 IRIG DCLS Output - 25 IRIG DCLS Input +

13 IRIG DCLS Output + 26 Ground

Signal END "A" END "B"

+12 V 3 1

GND 5 2

4.2 External GNSS Connector Pinout

Table 4-1:

Timing connector pinout

For additional information refer to "Accessories" on page38.

4.2 External GNSS Connector Pinout

If your TSync-PCIe card is configured for an external GNSS receiver, a Mini-DIN-8 connector is
used for signal transmission. The provided adapter cable (see illustration below) connects the
cable of the external receiver with the GNSS connector of the TSync-PCIe card.

Figure 4-2: GNSS receiver adapter cable

See table "Adapter pinout, ext. GNSS receiver" on the next page for adapter pinout ref
erence.

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19

Signal END "A" END "B"

1PPS + 9 6

1PPS – 14 3

UP + 12 8

UP – 13 5

DOWN + 10 4

DOWN – 11 7

SHIELD SHELL SHELL

4.2 External GNSS Connector Pinout

Table 4-2:

Adapter pinout, ext. GNSS receiver

20

CHAPTER 4 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

Installation

This Chapter includes the following topics:

5.1 GNSS Antenna 22

5.2 Changing the Board Bracket 22

5.3 Status LEDs 24

CHAPTER 5

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21

5.1 GNSS Antenna

Caution – Observe all ESD procedures when handling the board and the com

puter. Before installing the board, discharge static buildup by touching the metal
frame of the computer with one hand and the protective bag containing the board
with the other hand. Open the protective bag only after static buildup has been
safely discharged.

5.1 GNSS Antenna

The mounting location of the external GNSS antenna should be free of objects that could
obstruct satellite visibility from straight overhead to within 20degrees of the horizon in all dir
ections.

Obstructions that block a significant portion of the sky result in degraded performance. The
GNSS receiver must track at least four satellites, in order to obtain time synchronization.

To optimize timing accuracy, the GNSSreceiver attempts to track satellites that are spread out
as far as possible across the sky. The GNSS antenna must be mounted such that the antenna
points to the sky (i.e. the connector side pointing down), and it must be spaced at least
39inches (1meter) away from other GNSS antennas.

Mount the antenna at the desired location. Connect the supplied cable to the antenna. Take
appropriate lightning precautions as necessary.

NOTE – Spectracom recommends applying an appropriate silicon grease to the

cable connection at the GNSS antenna in order to protect the connection from
moisture. An additional weatherproofing kit (P/N 221213) containing butyl rub
ber and plastic tape is also available from Andrews Corporation, USA, phone
+1.800.255.1479.

NOTE – Once an external GNSS receiver is connected to a TSync-cPCI or -PCIe

board, it will be reset to factory default settings.

If you are replacing an existing legacy board-level product, be aware of the fact
that your GNSS receiver will no longer operate with legacy board-level products
once it has been used with a TSync-cPCI or PCIe board.

5.2 Changing the Board Bracket

NOTE – This procedure does NOT apply to TSync-PCIe-PTP boards.

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5.2 Changing the Board Bracket

The TSync-PCIe board is shipped with the 1/2 height backplane pre-installed. Follow the pro
cedure outlined below to install a full height backplane, if so required.

Figure 5-1: Changing the board bracket

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23

State Sync Alarm Holdover 1PPS Manual

Power-On On Off Off N/A N/A

Self-Test On On On N/A N/A

Waiting for Host Blink Blink Off N/A N/A

Download from Host Strobe Strobe Strobe N/A N/A

Initialize Off Off Off – Off

Never Synchronized Off Off Off – N/A

Synchronized On Off Off – N/A

5.3 Status LEDs

1.

Tools required for this procedure include a #1 Phillips head screwdriver, a 1/8-inch nut
driver or open-end wrench, and a 5/16” driver, wrench, or socket.

Internal GPS receiver boards only: Using the 5/16-inch driver or wrench, remove

2.

the nut and lock washer securing the GNSS RF cable to the board. Slide the cable out of
the D-hole in the half-height bracket.

3.

Use the Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the Phillips-head screw securing the bracket
to the Tsync-PCIe board.

4.

Using the 1/8-inch nut driver, remove the two jack screws from the 25-pin connector. The
half-height bracket can now be removed from the TSync-PCIe board.

5.

Install the full-height bracket. Replace the jack screws on the 25-pin connector.

NOTE – It may be desirable to install the Phillips-head screw finger-tight, then the

jack screws, before completely tightening the Phillips-head screw. Also, be careful
to seat the jack screws fully in the holes in the full-height bracket, or the breakout
cable will not attach properly to the 25-pin connector when the cable is connected
to the board for operation.

6.

Reverse steps 1 through 3 in order to complete installation of the full-height bracket.
Reconnect the Phillips-head screw to secure the bracket on the board and, for boards
with internal GPS receivers, reco nnect the SMA RF connector cable (being sure to align
it properly in the D-hole).

The board operates automatically as soon as the host computer system performs the power-on
reset. To change the operating parameters or read data, consult the available Application Pro
grammer’s Guide for this product.

5.3 Status LEDs

During start up and operation, the board LEDs flash in sequence to indicate different oper
ational states.The patterns are as follows:

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State Sync Alarm Holdover 1PPS Manual

Holdover On Off On – N/A

No Longer Synchronized Off On Off – N/A

Free Run Blink Off Blink – N/A

• Fault Code Code Code Code Code

5.3 Status LEDs

Table 5-1:

• The code indicates the fault condition. It blinks the number of times indicated with a 2-second pause
between each set.
1 blink = FPGA programming error
2 blinks = failure to decompress
3 blinks = CRC failure writing to flash
4 blinks = self-test failure
5 blinks = timing system failure

LED flash patterns

NOTE – During the power-on, self- test, wait-for-host, and download- from-host

states, modes are directly allocated to the LEDs (sync is green, holdover is yellow,
and alarm is red). During normal operation, the user may set any LED to any of
the operational modes.

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25

5.3 Status LEDs

BLANK PAGE.

26

CHAPTER 5 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

CHAPTER 6

Theory of Operation

The TSync-PCIe board's architecture essentially consists of input ref
erences, which are used as sources of 1PPS synchronization and/or
time-of-day (TOD) and date information, and for disciplining an
internal oscillator. The TSync-PCIe takes the synchronous clock, a
1PPS and time-of- day (TOD) and date to create output references
that act as time references for other devices. Other interfaces for
time stamping external events, creating precisely timed external sig
nals, debug, upgrade, and access from a host computer are
provided.

This Chapter includes the following topics:

6.1 Input References 28

6.1.1 GNSS Receivers as Input References 28

6.1.2 IRIG Inputs 28

6.1.3 External 1PPS Reference 30

6.1.4 Built-in References 30

6.2 Input Reference Monitor 30

6.3 Clock Subsystem 31

6.4 Output References 32

6.4.1 IRIG Output 32

6.4.2 10-MHz Sine Wave Output 33

6.4.3 1PPS Output 33

6.5 General Purpose Input/Output 34

6.5.1 Programmable Inputs 34

6.5.2 Programmable Outputs 34

6.6 System Status 34

6.7 LEDs 35

6.8 Upgrade 35

6.9 Interrupts 35

6.9.1 Interrupt Descriptions 35

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27

6.1 Input References

6.1 Input References

The input references consist of multiple interfaces to various types of Time References. A Time
Reference can take many forms but their fundamental responsibility is they always provide a
1PPS on-time-point, they usually provide a time-of-day and date input and they might provide a
control and status protocol to the time source. The input references can also provide other time
related data such as Leap Second indication and number of seconds, Julian date, day of year,
day of week, week of year, status, sync indication, accuracy indication and other fields unre
lated to time.

The TSync-PCIe architecture’s input reference subsystem is designed to support multiple possible
input references, while allowing only a single time reference and 1PPS reference to discipline
the local clock subsystem at any given time. The user can choose to use the factory default pri
ority list for input references, or may define a proprietary priority list. This user priority list can
be created to combine different time and 1PPS sources (such as GNSS time coupled with the
external 1PPS). The user is also provided with the means to enable or disable the selection of a
specified input reference allowing them to disregard the list and synchronize to a specific out
put.

6.1.1 GNSS Receivers as Input References

GNSS receivers are usually the highest precision and accuracy time references a TSync-PCIe
board can select. GNSS receivers use coaxial GNSS antenna input and typically provides a
serial interface and a 1PPS output. The serial interface can be used for bi-directional com
munication with the GNSS receiver to implement a control and status protocol which conveys
time and position information.

6.1.2 IRIG Inputs

Inter-range instrumentation group time codes, more commonly referred to as “IRIG” time codes,
were created by the Tele-Communications Working Group of the Inter-Range Instrumentation
Group, which is a standard body formed by Range Commanders Council. This standard was
used by USGovernment military test ranges, NASA, and other research organizations to dis
tribute telemetry information, including time and frequency. The current standard version is IRIG
Standard 200-4. The TSync-PCIe architecture uses IRIG formats as both input and output ref
erences. IRIG formats can be amplitude modulated, or they can be digital signals at various car
rier and clock rates.

The TSync-PCIe architecture supports IRIG inputs with Formats A, B, and G. It supports inputs
and outputs using modulation frequency values of pulse width code, also known as DCLS (0),
and sine wave amplitude modulated coding. Additionally, the board supports inputs with fre
quency/resolution values of no carrier/index count interval, 1kHz/1ms, 10kHz/0.1ms, and
100kHz/10ms, as well as IRIG input coded expressions of the fields BCDTOY, CF, SBS, and
BCDYEAR.

The TSync-PCIe board supports IRIG inputs of the following coded expressions combinations for
BCDTOY, CF, SBS, and BCDYEAR fields:

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CHAPTER 6 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

A – DCLS A – AM B – DCLS B – AM G – DCLS G – AM

A – DCLS A – AM B – DCLS B – AM G – DCLS G – AM

A000 A130 B000 B120 NA NA

A001 A131 B001 B121 G001 G141

A002 A132 B002 B122 G002 G142

A003 A133 B003 B123 NA NA

A004 A134 B004 B124 NA NA

NA NA NA NA G005 G145

6.1 Input References

0 – BCDTOY, CF, SBS

1 – BCDTOY, CF

2 – BCDTOY

3 – BCDTOY, SBS

4 – BCDTOY, BCDYEAR, CF, SBS

5 – BCDTOY, BCDYEAR, CF

The TSync-PCIe board supports synchronization with the following analog and DCLS IRIG input
formats:

Table 6-1:

IRIG Input Reference Formats

The TSync-PCIe supports the IRIG B variant NASA36 as an input format, as well as the IEEE
C37.118-2005 (which is an IRIG B format with extensions as an input format). The IEEE
C37.118-2005 specification supersedes IEEE 1344-1996. The TSync-PCIe is backward com
patible to IEEE 1344-1996 by compliance with IEEE C37.118-2005.

The board can automatically detect IRIG formats A, B, G, and NASA36. However, IRIG format
IEEE1344, coded expression, and control field information cannot be auto-detected.These must
be specified by the user if these inputs are to be used.

NOTE – Always configure IRIG parameters in the following order: format, coded

expressions, control field definitions.

In operation, the TSync-PCIe board receives IRIG input data and any time code messages trans
mitted, performs signal conditioning on the data, and decodes the data per its manually set
parameters and automatically detected functions. In turn, the board provides a serial time code
data message and a 1PPS reference. It also returns the IRIG input message’s raw serial time
code data in Spectracom’s data format. (This is useful in debugging serial time code source
and hardware implementations.)

The TSync-PCIe module also accepts as input any non-standard IRIG format generated by the

CHAPTER 6 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

Spectracom Netclock, including the non-standard BCDYEAR found in the Control field. This is

29

6.2 Input Reference Monitor

intended to support the Spectracom 91xx and 92xx IRIG formats, which use the BCDYEAR in
the Control field.

6.1.3 External 1PPS Reference

The board’s external 1PPS reference provides the on-time-point for the current second. This ref
erence is used by the TSync-PCIe as the primary source of frequency synchronization (while
another input reference is required to serve as the source of time and date information). The
external 1PPS reference can be set to use either the rising or falling edge.

6.1.4 Built-in References

The TSync-PCIe board provides built-in references that support specialized user applications.

6.1.4.1 Host Reference

The TSync-PCIe can be set to use the host as the source of date and time information, while
another input reference is required to serve as the source of frequency input.This allows the
host to provide time to the board while providing a means to determine and indicate whether
that time is valid for synchronization. Using the host as a reference means it could conceivably
be used to receive date and time information from a source not available to the board, provid
ing that information to the board for synchronization to it (while using a separate frequency
input).

6.1.4.2 Self Reference

The TSync-PCIe provides a built-in reference that allows the board to operate without a sep
arate input reference. The date and time or frequency information from this self reference is
always considered valid.This allows a user to operate the board as if it were synchronizing to
an input reference, without a valid external reference input. The self reference priority table
entry defaults to “disabled.”

6.2 Input Reference Monitor

The input reference monitor subsystem maintains the reference priority table and determines
which input reference(s) are selected to synchronize the clock subsystem.

Three tables are maintained by the system:

A default table, which provides the default reference pairings in timing accuracy priority

A working table, which is the table used for selecting reference inputs

A user table, which can be stored persistently and, if present, will be loaded into the
working table at startup

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CHAPTER 6 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

Enable Priority Time Ref 1PPS Ref

en 1 gps0 gps0

en 2 ird0 ird0

en 3 ira0 ira0

en 4 hst0 epp0

en 5 hst0 self

dis 6 self self

dis 0

dis 0

6.3 Clock Subsystem

Table 6-2:

Legend:

Reference, hst0 = Host Reference, self = Self Reference

Example default table

gps = GPS Reference, ird = IRIG DCLS Reference, ira = IRIG AM Reference, epp = External 1PPS

Entries can be added to and deleted from the working table. In addition, individual entries can
be enabled or disabled. Their priorities can be changed at any time. Any changes to the table
will cause the reference monitor to reevaluate the best reference to use for synchronization.
The working table can be saved to the user table and persisted, or it can be reset to the default
table or an already existing user table at any time.

At any given time, the highest priority enabled entry in the table that has both a valid time and
a valid 1PPS reference will be used as the best reference for synchronization. The power of the
reference monitor is in its ability to generate any combination of time and 1PPS references in
any priority. For example, if a user has a high precision 1PPS source, this can serve as the
provided external 1PPS reference and can be paired with a GNSS time reference.

The reference tables, the currently selected best reference, and the current validity states of all
input references can be requested from the board.

6.3 Clock Subsystem

The clock subsystem is the heart of the TSync-PCIe timing architecture.Time is maintained in the
board’s hardware and incremented in 5- nsec units, while sub- second information is
tracked.Time, from seconds through years, is incremented based on the internal 1PPS derived
from the selected input reference.

By default, system time is maintained in UTC, but this can be set to TAI, GPS, or a local times
cale (with DST rules). Offsets between timescales are maintained on the board to facilitate con
versions between the timescales.The offsets can be set by the user or, depending on the
references available, may be automatically determined. Users who wish to use a specific times

CHAPTER 6 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

cale must provide the timescale offset from an input reference or by setting it manually.
The clock subsystem can handle several types of time discontinuities, including leap years, leap

seconds, DST transitions, and a user-settable discontinuity.Leap years are automatically detec
ted and handled by the system. Leap seconds, if set from the user or received from an input

31

A – DCLS A – AM B – DCLS B – AM E – DCLS E – AM G – DCLS G – AM

A000 A130 B000 B120 E000 E110 NA NA

A001 A131 B001 B121 E001 E111 G001 G141

A002 A132 B002 B122 E002 E112 G002 G142

A003 A133 B003 B123 E003 E120 NA NA

6.4 Output References

reference, are also handled accordingly.The system can manage DST transitions set by the user
when running in a local timescale.

6.4 Output References

The output subsystem provides time code and frequency references derived from the input ref
erence. The outputs provided include a single IRIG AM and DCLS output pair, a 10-MHz sine
wave output, and a 1PPS output.

The output subsystem supports setting output offset(s) for each output except the 10-MHz sine
wave output, which can be used to compensate for output cable length delays or downstream
clock accuracy errors. Each output offset can range from -500msec to +500msec in 5 or 20­nsec steps (depending on the type of output).

6.4.1 IRIG Output

The TSync-PCIe board provides one IRIG AM and DCLS pair output. The IRIG output is a rolling
count of the initial value of the system time until synchronized. The board drives the IRIG AM out
put from an associated IRIG DCLS output and outputs the exact same format (except for the AM
modulation).

The TSync-PCIe board supports IRIG outputs with Formats A, B, E and G. It also supports IRIG
outputs using modulation frequency values of pulse width code, also known as DCLS, and sine
wave amplitude modulated coding. It further supports IRIG outputs with frequency/resolution
values of no carrier/index count interval, 100Hz/10ms, 1kHz/1ms, 10kHz/0.1ms, and
100kHz/10ms. Coded expressions for the fields BCDTOY, CF, SBS, and BCDYEAR. Are sup
ported, as is IRIG output for the following coded expressions combinations for BCDTOY, CF,
SBS, and BCDYEAR fields:

0 – BCDTOY, CF, SBS

1 – BCDTOY, CF

2 – BCDTOY

3 – BCDTOY, SBS

4 – BCDTOY, BCDYEAR, CF, SBS

5 – BCDTOY, BCDYEAR, CF

The TSync-PCIe board allows the user to select the following Time Code Formats for IRIG output:

32

CHAPTER 6 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

A – DCLS A – AM B – DCLS B – AM E – DCLS E – AM G – DCLS G – AM

A004 A134 B004 B124 E004 E122 NA NA

NA NA NA NA E005 E125 NA G145

6.4 Output References

Table 6-3:

The TSync-PCIe allows the user to select the IRIG B variant NASA36 as an IRIG output. It also
supports user-selection of IEEE C37.118-2005 as an IRIG output. This is an IRIG B format with
extensions. The board is compliant with IEEE 1344-1996 as IEEE C37.118-2005 supersedes this
specification.

The board generates the non- standard IRIG formats that are generated by the Spectracom
Netclock, including the non-standard BCDYEAR. This provides for compatibility with existing
Spectracom NetClock products.

The TSync-PCIe board supports adjustment of the IRIG output amplitude using a scale ranging
from 0 to 255, with 128 being the middle and default value. The adjustment range approx
imates a linear function.

The IRIG outputs provide an offset that can be applied to adjust its relationship with the internal
system 1PPS, from -500msec to +500msec in 5-nsec increments

The IRIG outputs provide signature control, which enables and disables outputs under the fol
lowing conditions:

IRIG Output Reference Formats

NOTE – Configuration of IRIG parameters should always be in the following

order: format, coded expressions, control field definitions.

Signature control off — outputs always on.

Signature control enables output when in sync to input reference only

Signature control enables output when in sync to input reference or in holdover

6.4.2 10-MHz Sine Wave Output

The TSync-PCIe board generates a 10-MHz sine wave output from the disciplined on-board
oscillator. The 10-MHz sine wave output provides signature control similar to the IRIG outputs.

6.4.3 1PPS Output

The TSync- PCIe board generates a digital 1PPS output from the internal 1PPS of the
system.Several parameters of the 1PPS can be controlled.The active edge can be set to either
rising or falling edge, the pulse width can be adjusted, and an offset can be applied to adjust
its relationship to the internal system, 1PPS from - 500msec to +500msec in 5- nsec
increments.The 1PPS output provides signature control similar to the IRIG outputs.

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33

6.5 General Purpose Input/Output

6.5 General Purpose Input/Output

The TSync-PCIe board has four general purpose input (GPIO) pins and four general purpose
output (GPIO) pins. The General I/O subsystem provides a mechanism to generate or time
stamp external events, to match times and generate a signal, to create Heartbeat pulses, or to
create square wave clock signals synchronous to the internal timing system clock and to the
1PPS signal from the input reference.

6.5.1 Programmable Inputs

The General I/O input pins support user selection for detection of rising edge or falling edge
input events. These inputs, when triggered, are used to time-tag the input edge-detected events.
They support a time between input events of 50nsec and an overall rate of more than 10,000
time stamps per second. Time stamps are maintained in a FIFO on the board that can store up
to 512 unique time stamps among all input pins.

6.5.2 Programmable Outputs

The user may select the operational mode of the General I/O outputs pins, setting them to gen
eric output pins, square wave generation, and match time events.

The General I/O outputs, when configured as generic output pins, can be controlled and
changed at the user’s discretion.

The General I/O output can be programmed as a square wave synchronized to the 1PPS.
When used to output a square wave, the General I/O has a programmable period range of
100nsec to 1sec (10MHz to 1Hz) in 5nsec steps and a programmable pulse width of
10nsec to 999,999,990nsec in 5nsec steps (polarity is programmable).

The General I/O is configurable as a Match Time Event pin, which will activate at a preset time
and become inactive at another preset time. The Match Time Event provides two user settable
times to make the General I/O pin active and inactive. The Match Time Event configured Gen
eral I/O pin has a programmable edge, allowing the selection of Low to High or High to
Low.s

The General I/O output signals timing are accurate relative to the Input reference’s 1PPS signal
to within ±50nsec. The General I/O output has a programmable offset, which ranges from ­500msec to +500msec in 5nsec steps.

6.6 System Status

The TSync-PCIe board maintains status information.It logs error and informational messages
while operational.System status information (synchronization status, holdover status, freerun
status, and total system uptime) are available to the user.In addition, alarm conditions and time
stamps for the alarms are available for conditions including synchronization, holdover, fre
quency errors, PPS specification errors, reference changes, and system errors.

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CHAPTER 6 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

6.7 LEDs

The TSync- PCIe board includes three LEDs that provide visual status information to the
user.Refer to the table "LED flash patterns" on page25 for these indicator codes. The LEDs
operate in certain modes by default, but each LED can be configured independently to display
any mode, including a manual mode. In manual mode, the user can set LEDs to on, off, or
blink.

6.8 Upgrade

One of the most powerful features available is the capability to perform field upgrades of the
configuration and firmware/FPGA loads for the TSync-PCIe boards.New features and cap
abilities can be added and uploaded to the board without the need to restart the system in
which the board is installed.Refer to the Factory Driver Guide for details on upgrading the
board using the upgrade tool supplied with the driver.

6.7 LEDs

6.9 Interrupts

The host bus has one interrupt line available from the TSync-PCIe. All interrupt sources destined
for the host bus are multiplexed on the single interrupt line. All interrupts are masked on startup,
but can be unmasked using the host bus interrupt mask register. Whether an interrupt is masked
or not, the current state of the interrupt is available by reading the Host Bus Interrupt Status
register. All interrupt sources are latched based on an edge transition. All interrupts are cleared
in the host bus interrupt status register.

6.9.1 Interrupt Descriptions

6.9.1.1 1PPS Received

This interrupt is driven on the incident edge of the PPS.

6.9.1.2 Timing System Service Request

This interrupt is used by the micro to request attention from the local bus.

6.9.1.3 Local/μC Bus FIFO Empty

This interrupt is driven when the FIFO from the local bus to the microcontroller bus becomes
empty. It is based on the rising edge of the FIFO’s empty flag.

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35

6.9 Interrupts

6.9.1.4 Local/μC Bus FIFO Overflow

This interrupt is driven when the FIFO from the local bus to the microcontroller bus is over
flowed. It is based on the rising edge of the FIFO’s overflow flag.

6.9.1.5 μC/local bus FIFO Data Available

This interrupt is driven when the FIFO from the microcontroller bus to the local bus is no longer
empty. It is based on the falling edge of the FIFO’s empty flag.

6.9.1.6 μC/local bus FIFO Overflow

This interrupt is driven when the FIFO from the microcontroller bus to the local bus is over
flowed. It is based on the rising edge of the FIFO’s overflow flag.

6.9.1.7 GPIO Input x Event

This interrupt is driven when the active edge of the GPIO input signal is received.

6.9.1.8 GPIO Output x Event

The interrupt is driven when an event occurs in the GPIO output. An event depends on the mode
of operation of the GPIO output. In Direct mode, an event is triggered when the output Value in
the GPIO output control / status register is changed and creates the active edge selected by the
GPIO direct mode output interrupt active edge bit in that same register. This can be used to gen
erate a “software” interrupt by setting the GPIO output appropriately. In match time mode, an
interrupt is generated whenever the GPIO output high match time or GPIO output low match
time registers are enabled and subsequently matched against the current system time. In square
wave mode, an interrupt is generated whenever the GPIO output generates the active edge as
selected by the GPIO output square wave active edge bit in the GPIO output control / status
register. This can be used to generate a periodic interrupt at the rate of the square wave.

6.9.1.9 Time Stamp Data Available

This interrupt is driven when the time stamp FIFO goes non-empty. Time stamp data is available
in the time stamp FIFO when this interrupt occurs.

36

CHAPTER 6 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

Options and Accessories

This Chapter includes the following topics:

7.1 Options 38

7.2 Accessories 38

7.2.1 Adapter Cable, Timing Interface 38

7.2.2 Premium Breakout Cable 39

7.2.3 Basic Breakout Cable 41

7.2.4 GNSS Cables 43

CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 7 • Instruction Manual XYZ

37

END "A" END "B"

PIN-1 PIN-1

PIN-2 PIN-2

PIN-3 PIN-3

PIN-4 PIN-4

PIN-5 PIN-5

PIN-6 PIN-6

PIN-7 PIN-7

7.1 Options

7.1 Options

A TCXO oscillator is standard. An available OCXO oscillator may be purchased as an option.

7.2 Accessories

7.2.1 Adapter Cable, Timing Interface

The included 6"-adapter cable is used to connect the breakout cable to the 25-pin timing inter
face connector.

Figure 7-1: Adapter cable

38

CHAPTER 7 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

END "A" END "B"

PIN-8 PIN-8

PIN-9 PIN-9

PIN-10 PIN-10

PIN-11 PIN-11

PIN-12 PIN-12

PIN-13 PIN-13

PIN-14 PIN-14

PIN-15 PIN-15

PIN-16 PIN-16

PIN-17 PIN-17

PIN-18 PIN-18

PIN-19 PIN-19

PIN-20 PIN-20

PIN-21 PIN-21

PIN-22 PIN-22

PIN-23 PIN-23

PIN-24 PIN-24

PIN-25 PIN-25

NO CONNECT PIN-26 SHIELD

7.2 Accessories

Table 7-1:

Adapter pinout, timing connector

CHAPTER 7 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

7.2.2 Premium Breakout Cable

The premium breakout cable breaks out all features from the timing connector to separate BNC
and DB-9 connectors for use. See table below for details.

39

Pin Signal Pin Signal

P1—Timing Connector

1 GPIO Output 2 14 GPIO Output 3

2 Ground 15 Ground

3 GPIO Output 0 16 GPIO Output 1

4 GPIO Input 2 17 GPIO Input 3

5 Ground 18 Ground

6 GPIO Input 0 19 GPIO Input 1

7 External 1PPS Input 20 1PPS Output

8 Ground 21 Ground

9 IRIG AM Output 22 10MHz Output

10 IRIG AM Input + 23 Ground

11 IRIG AM Input - 24 IRIG DCLS Input -

12 IRIG DCLS Output - 25 IRIG DCLS Input +

13 IRIG DCLS Output + 26 Shield

P2—IRIG DCLS I/O (DB-9 Female)

2 Ground 6 IRIG DCLS Output +

3 Ground 7 IRIG DCLS Output -

4 IRIG DCLS Input + BS Ground

5 IRIG DCLS Input -

7.2 Accessories

Figure 7-2: Breakout cable, premium version

40

CHAPTER 7 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

Pin Signal Pin Signal

P3—10MHz Output (BNC Female)

1 10MHz Output BS Ground

P4—1PPS Output (BNC Female)

1 1PPS Output BS Ground

P5—IRIG AM Input (BNC Female)

1 IRIG AM Input + BS IRIG AM Input -

P6—IRIG AM Output (BNC Female)

1 IRIG AM Output BS Ground

P7—1PPS Input (BNC Female)

1 External 1PPS Input BS Ground

P8—GP Input (DB-9 Female)

1 GPIO Input 0 7 Ground

2 GPIO Input 1 8 Ground

3 GPIO Input 2 9 Ground

4 GPIO Input 3 BS Ground

6 Ground

P9—GP Output (DB-9 Female)

1 GPIO Output 0 7 Ground

2 GPIO Output 1 8 Ground

3 GPIO Output 2 9 Ground

4 GPIO Output 3

6 Ground BS Ground

7.2 Accessories

7.2.3 Basic Breakout Cable

Table 7-2:

The basic breakout cable breaks out a subset of features from the 26-pin timing connector to
separate BNC and DB-9 connectors for use. The basic breakout cable supports the following
features: External 1PPS Input, IRIG AM Input, IRIG DCLS Input, IRIG AM Output, (1) GP Input, (2)
GP Outputs.The pinout of the connector is depicted below:

Pinout, premium breakout cable (unspecified pins are not connected in the cable)

CHAPTER 7 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

41

Pin Signal Pin Signal

P1—Timing Connector

3 GPIO Output 0 11 IRIG AM Input -

5 Ground 16 GPIO Output 1

6 GPIO Input 0 18 Ground

7 External 1PPS Input 21 Ground

8 Ground 24 IRIG DCLS Input -

9 IRIG AM Output 25 IRIG DCLS Input +

10 IRIG AM Input +

P2—Digital I/O (DB-9 Female)

1 Ground 6 GPIO Output 0

2 GPIO Input 0 7 Ground

3 Ground 8 GPIO Output 1

4 IRIG DCLS Input + 9 Ground

5 IRIG DCLS Input - BS Ground

P3—IRIG AM Input (BNC Female)

1 IRIG AM Input + BS IRIG AM Input -

7.2 Accessories

Figure 7-3: Breakout cable, basic version

42

CHAPTER 7 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

Pin Signal Pin Signal

P4—IRIG AM Output (BNC Female)

1 IRIG AM Output BS Ground

P5—1PPS Input (BNC Female)

1 External 1PPS Input BS Ground

P6—1PPS Output (BNC Female)

1 1PPS Output BS Ground

7.2 Accessories

Table 7-3:

Pinout, basic breakout cable (unspecified poins are not connected in the table)

7.2.4 GNSS Cables

Contact Spectracom for more information on GNSS cable length options.

If your TSync-PCIe board is configured to be operated with an external GNSS receiver, it will
have shipped with a GNSS receiver adapter cable. Additional information see under "External
GNSS Connector Pinout" on page19.

CHAPTER 7 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

43

7.2 Accessories

BLANK PAGE.

44

CHAPTER 7 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

Driver Support

Spectracom offers an Application Programmer’s Guide for the
TSync- PCIe, as well as specific drivers and supporting doc
umentation.

Please contact your sales representative for more information about
Spectracom’s bus-level timing board driver support for a variety of
operating platforms. You may also visit our website at www.spec

tracomcorp.com to download datasheets and user documentation.

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 8 • Instruction Manual XYZ

45

BLANK PAGE.

46

CHAPTER 8 • Instruction Manual XYZ Rev. R

Appendix

This appendix comprises lists of figures and tables, as well as
release information specific to this User Manual.

APPENDIX

Instruction Manual XYZ • APPENDIX

i

Revision ECN Description Date

A 2271 First iteration of this Spectracom product

documentation

B 2299 Added external GPS receiver board

APPENDIX

List of Tables

Table 1-1: Spectracom safety symbols
Table 2-1: Customer service contact information
Table 3-1: 10-MHz output specifications
Table 3-2: 1PPS output specifications
Table 4-1: Timing connector pinout
Table 4-2: Adapter pinout, ext. GNSS receiver
Table 5-1: LED flash patterns
Table 6-1: IRIG Input Reference Formats
Table 6-2: Example default table
Table 6-3: IRIG Output Reference Formats
Table 7-1: Adapter pinout, timing connector
Table 7-2: Pinout, premium breakout cable (unspecified pins are not connected in the

cable)
Table 7-3: Pinout, basic breakout cable (unspecified poins are not connected in the

table)

List of Images

Figure 1-1: Do not ignore the Safety Instructions
Figure 4-1: TSync-PCIe board
Figure 4-2: GNSS receiver adapter cable
Figure 5-1: Changing the board bracket
Figure 7-1: Adapter cable
Figure 7-2: Breakout cable, premium version
Figure 7-3: Breakout cable, basic version

2

8
12
13
19
20
25
29
31
33
39

41

43

1
18
19
23
38
40
42

Document Revision History

ii Instruction Manual XYZ

Revision ECN Description Date

C 2341 Changes to bring manual current to soft

ware rev. 1.4.0: Changed GPI/O Output
Squarewave Output specification. Revised
basic breakout cable pinout.

D 2498 Updated for PTP, additional maintenance. Sept. 2010

E 2570 Minor corrections/maintenance to coincide

with TSync driver version 2.41

January 2011

F 2702 Updated address information October 2011

G 3412 - Update for new GNSS receiver

- Updated specification to match data sheet

- Updated information on breakout cable

February 2014

H 3430,

3449

- Correction, page 6-3: Designation, pin 6

- Specification correction, 10-MHz Output,
phase noise

May 2, 2014

J Content delivery changes May 20, 2014

APPENDIX

Instruction Manual XYZ iii

BLANK PAGE.

iv Instruction Manual XYZ

GPIO 13

1

10-MHz 11, 18, iii
1PPS 12, 18, 40

B

Breakout Cable

C

Clock 28
Compliance 3-4

D

Driver support 45

INDEX

E

Emissions

Basic 41
Premium 39

Electro-magnetic compliance 3

I

Input references 12
Inputs, Outputs

Programmable 6, 34
Interrupts 35
IRIG

Inputs

Outputs II, 6, 10, 18, 28,

40

L

LEDs 24

P

Pinout

Timing connector 18

S

Specifications 10

G

GNSS 1, II, 6, 11, 19, 22, 28,

43, iii

Instruction Manual XYZ • INDEX

v