October 25, 2002—The Primex Wireless GPS Master-Satellite Time System uses a combination of GPS and FM radio signals to synchronize all clocks in a system. This new system is easier to install and less expensive than existing hardwired systems and, explains Primex, is more reliable than either hardwired systems or clocks that synchronize via AM radio signals from the NIST.
The Primex Wireless GPS Master-Satellite Time System incorporates a receiver that captures an atomic time signal from the United States government’s Global Positioning System (GPS) to maintain official time and a master transmitter that rebroadcasts the time via a localized radio signal to all of the “satellite” system clocks. The satellite clocks then self-adjust not only to the exact timeto the secondbut to the officially correct time. Unlike ordinary quartz clocks, these new “satellite” clocks automatically adjust for Daylight Saving Time changes.
Each system is made up of essentially two parts: a “master,” which includes a GPS receiver and an FM transmitter, and an unlimited number of freestanding “satellite” clocks. The receiver needs to be placed where it can capture a GPS signal. The transmitter then broadcasts the time signal via a localized FM signal. Each battery-operated clock can be hung without having to be connected to a hardwired system. Since the clocks are not hardwired, the system is easy to reconfigure or add onto for renovations and is not subjected to electrical surges.
Primex offers a variety of styles, including a 24-hour military style clock, with 1 through 12 marked on an outer ring and 13 through 24 marked on an inner ring. They can even take custom logos.
Primex recently introduced the Bell Tone Generator, which synchronizes bells and bell tones with system clocks. It produces precisely scheduled tones using existing public announcement (PA) or mechanical bell systems and user-friendly scheduler software. The tone generator can handle multiple schedules and up to 100 zones
Primex clocks were displayed at the October IFMA World Workplace conference in Toronto. For more information, contact Primex.
