Symmetricom Unveils Multi-Sync SoftClock for 4G/LTE Equipment

Symmetricom, a provider of precision time and frequency technologies, has launched its multi-sync software clock solution, the SoftClock SCi 2000 rel. 2.0.

The softclock solution, a carrier-grade, embedded multiple-input software clock solution, is designed to meet the stringent synchronization requirements of Long Term Evolution (LTE) small cells, macro base stations and backhaul infrastructure.

The growth of LTE has necessitated network robustness and reliability. Network synchronization solutions are required to meet the rigorous timing and delivery requirements that ensure network quality. Solutions like SCi 2000 help network equipment suppliers meet new operator timing and sync requirements, with faster time to market and lower overall design cost.

"Symmetricom's embedded portfolio complements our existing systems portfolio to deliver complete end-to-end timing solutions for communications networks," said Manish Gupta, vice president of marketing for Symmetricom. "The SCi 2000 provides an easily adopted future proof solution for both existing and future systems that need to support evolving 4G/LTE network deployments."

Symmetricom SCi 2000 SoftClock delivers high precision frequency and phase synchronization required by the evolving IP-based LTE infrastructure, company officials said. The SCi 2000 supports the challenging LTE-TDD requirements of frequency (50 ppb at air interface) and phase (+/- 1.5 microseconds).

The LTE softclock can handle multiple sync standards including PTP 1588, SyncE, GPS, UTI and E1/T1; it allows systems to select from multiple sync inputs and provide the best possible clock output, according to company officials. With BesTime precise time reference management algorithm, the SCi 2000 takes multiple inputs and disciplines local oscillators to generate a highly accurate clock output.

The SCi 2000 offers a hardware and architecturally agnostic software solution. It can work with a variety of oscillators ranging from OCXO to TCXO.  

Recently Symmetricom announced it has deployed its IEEE 1588 solutions in over 100 networks globally. According to company officials, this is an important milestone for the mobile backhaul market as it accelerates the transition from TDM to packet networks.