APPLICOM PCI1500S7

Description

Technical Specifications:

• Model: PCI1500S7
• Interface: PCI Express x4, Gen 1 compatible
• Time Reference Inputs: 1 PPS (Pulse Per Second), 10 MHz, IRIG-B (AC/DC), ToD (Time of Day) RS-232/422
• Time Reference Accuracy: ±10 ns (1 PPS), ±5 ns (10 MHz)
• Holdover Accuracy: ±1 μs per day (OCXO), ±50 μs per day (TCXO)
• Oscillator: OCXO (Oven Controlled Crystal Oscillator) — optional TCXO
• Output Signals: 1 PPS, 10 MHz, IRIG-B (AC/DC), ToD RS-232/422, PTP (IEEE 1588v2) via Ethernet
• PTP Performance: Grandmaster mode, boundary clock, transparent clock; ±50 ns accuracy
• Synchronization Protocols: NTP, PTP (IEEE 1588v2), SyncE, IRIG-B
• NTP Stratum: Stratum 1 (with GPS reference)
• Ethernet Ports: 1× RJ-45 Gigabit Ethernet for PTP distribution
• Power Consumption: < 5 W
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to +55°C
• Dimensions: Standard PCIe half-length card, low-profile bracket available
• Compliance: CE, FCC, RoHS

Functional Features:

• Hardware timestamping for PTP — achieves sub-microsecond accuracy
• Dual-redundant time reference inputs with automatic switchover
• GPS disciplining via 1 PPS and 10 MHz from GPS receiver
• Web-based management interface for configuration and monitoring
• Alarm outputs for time reference loss, holdover mode entry
• Multi-constellation GNSS support (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou)

Structural Characteristics:

• PCB: 6-layer, FR-4, conformal coated
• Connector: PCIe x4 edge connector, SMA for RF antenna (GNSS), BNC for 1 PPS/10 MHz, D-sub for IRIG/ToD, RJ-45 for Ethernet
• LED indicators: Power, GPS lock, Time reference status, Alarm

Working Principle: The PCI1500S7 receives a primary time reference (typically GPS 1 PPS and 10 MHz). The OCXO is phase-locked to the 10 MHz reference and disciplined by the 1 PPS edge. The card generates all output signals (1 PPS, 10 MHz, IRIG-B, ToD) from this disciplined oscillator. For PTP, the card acts as a Grandmaster Clock, distributing time via Ethernet with hardware timestamping. In holdover (no reference), the OCXO maintains time with drift of less than 1 μs/day.

Advantages:

• Hardware-based PTP achieves true sub-microsecond accuracy — superior to software-only solutions
• Redundant reference inputs ensure continuous operation
• Single card replaces multiple timing devices
• Proven in telecom base stations and financial trading networks

Applicable Industries: Telecommunications (cell tower synchronization), power grid substations (IEEE C37.238), financial trading (timestamp accuracy), broadcast, industrial automation

Installation Requirements:

• PCIe x4 slot available on host server/PC
• GNSS antenna with clear sky view (active antenna with 5 m cable recommended)
• 1 PPS and 10 MHz cable from GPS receiver to card (BNC connectors, 50 Ohm)
• Ethernet connection to network for PTP distribution
• 12 VDC or 3.3 VDC from PCIe slot (auto-sensed)

Usage Precautions:

• GNSS antenna must have unobstructed view of sky — indoors requires active antenna with external mount
• Do not apply external 10 MHz reference exceeding +10 dBm
• Firmware updates via web interface only — do not flash using unauthorized tools
• ESD precautions when installing in PCIe slot