A GPS clock keeps time using a built-in GPS receiver rather than depending on a network connection or NTP server. Because it references satellite time directly, it is a self-contained time source that works even at sites with no LAN at the clock location.
Standalone or master-slave
Standalone — a single clock with its own GPS receiver, used where you need one accurate display with no dependency on any other equipment. See ORNATE 5000GD Series.
Master-slave — the same GPS-precision clock with a built-in master function that also drives additional slave clocks from its own GPS reference, extending accurate time to a corridor, floor or building. See ORNATE 5000GDMS Series, or read about complete master-slave clock systems.
Common specifications
Both models are available in blue, red and green LED displays, in HH:MM or HH:MM:SS format, in 2 to 12 inch digit sizes, with a remote GPS antenna cable of up to 25 metres (so the clock body can sit indoors while the antenna gets a clear sky view), a front-panel GPS sync indicator, and a rated MTBF of up to 300,000 hours.
Where GPS clocks are used
Standalone GPS clocks suit single-room or single-display installations — receptions, control rooms, production floors — where running network cable isn't necessary or desirable. Larger facilities that need many synchronized displays from one GPS point are better served by a master-slave system such as the ORNATE 2000 RFMS.
When GPS reception is interrupted
Any GPS clock depends on a usable satellite signal. Our guide to GNSS jamming, spoofing and holdover explains what happens when the signal is lost and how timing equipment is designed to cope.