The Network Time Protocol (NTP) is a protocol designed for synchronizing clocks across computer systems over packet-switched, variable-latency networks. In operation since before 1985, NTP remains one of the oldest and most widely used Internet protocols. Numerous public time servers, provided by both government agencies and private companies, allow devices to send a time request (“ping”) every approximately 5 minutes. The typical accuracy of NTP is around 100 milliseconds.

Any DDS Ethernet-synchronized clock can connect to either a local or public time server to adjust its internal clock based on the received signals. Even when disconnected from the network, the DDS clock relies on an internal real-time clock chip that ensures time accuracy within 1 second per year.

PoE (Power over Ethernet) is gaining popularity as a cost-saving measure, allowing customers to reduce the cost of AC outlet installations. DDS displays, clocks and timers allow you to power our devices using POE enabled switch or using POE injector. Using DDS NTP synchronization also allows both low power and automated time synchronization to your network time server of your choice.

In a typical installation, the customer must have a POE switch or POE injector that can feed DDS devices. Installers will need to calculate the power required to run multiple devices on the same line and add POE injectors as required.