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3 Tips for Choosing the Optimal GPS Antenna Location for Maximum Time Server Performance

3 Tips for Choosing the Optimal GPS Antenna Location for Maximum Time Server Performance

Throughwave Team•12/10/2014•Security
GPSTime ServerWavifyStratum-1antennanetwork time synchronization

When investing in a Time Server or Time Synchronization Appliance, selecting the right location for the GPS antenna to receive satellite time signals is one of the most critical factors. Key considerations for GPS antenna placement include:

GPS Antenna Placement Guidelines

  1. Install the GPS antenna outdoors with a clear view of the sky

    To ensure the GPS can connect to as many satellites as possible—even in cloudy or rainy conditions—the antenna should be placed in an open area. Outdoor installation significantly improves the chances of stable satellite connectivity. All cabling should also be rated for outdoor use. If outdoor installation is not possible, always test the antenna performance indoors beforehand.

  2. Install the GPS antenna away from lightning rods

    To reduce the risk of damage from lightning strikes, the GPS antenna should be installed at a safe distance from the building's lightning protection system. This helps minimize potential impact from electrical surges or strikes.

  3. Install the GPS antenna within the supported distance of the Time Server

    Each Time Server or Time Synchronization Appliance model has a maximum allowable distance between the GPS antenna and the main unit. Always confirm with the manufacturer or vendor regarding the maximum cable length to ensure proper operation.

    For more information about Time Server or Time Synchronization Appliance solutions, please contact Throughwave at 02-210-0969.

    About Wavify TimeNX

    Wavify TimeNX is a unified time synchronization appliance that synchronizes time using GPS signals received through an integrated antenna, delivering Stratum-1 level accuracy in compliance with Thailand's Computer Crime Act. In enterprise environments, it is typically used to address the following needs:

    Synchronizing system logs across firewalls, switches, and software to ensure accurate and legally compliant log correlation

    Aligning time across all servers and client devices to ensure consistent application performance

    Synchronizing machinery in production lines and laboratory environments for accurate coordinated operations

    Synchronizing network devices across branch offices to enable seamless cross-site operations

    Recommended Wavify TimeNX models include:

    NX-500: GPS-based unified time synchronization appliance supporting up to 4,400 devices per second

    NX-300: GPS-based unified time synchronization appliance supporting up to 2,500 devices per second

    NX-200: Peer-to-peer unified time synchronization appliance for branch offices, supporting up to 1,000 devices per second via NX-500 and NX-300

    Additional information: www.wavify.com

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