Symmetricom Announces Digital Broadcasting Sync Source

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hardware

Symmetricom has announced the 4370A DVB Sync Source, a flexible and highly reliable timing system designed for Single Frequency Network synchronization for Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB) and Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) applications. DVB/DAB require a precision time and frequency reference to synchronize transmitters across multiple locations. Without synchronization, networks are not able to reliably deliver video and audio content to the end user.

The 4370A receives reference-timing signals from GPS, fiber optic and E1 inputs and translates them to generate the output signals. In case of GPS loss, the 4370A automatically switches to and locks to the auxiliary fiber optic or 2 MHz, 2Mbit/sec input to continually provide outputs that are traceable to a primary reference clock. The 4370A can also be linked together via an optional fiber optic transceiver on the input, providing a double redundant system with no signal point of failure allowing the utmost in system reliability. Redundancy is a key requirement because without GPS based sync, transmission is lost and QoS is degraded.

The 4370A DVB Sync Source provides many key features, supporting evolving network topologies and minimizing network downtime for broadcasters, including:
- Redundant, Hot Swappable Design – Hot swappable power supplies and up to six (6) hot swap output modules providing 24 total outputs in a single 1U chassis; Option to configure two sync sources is available – one as primary and one as backup – for automatic switchover if the primary fails.
- Remote Monitoring and Control – Remote configuration and monitoring using SNMP allows for network-wide visibility, monitoring alarms and diagnosing errors quickly, ensuring robust network operation.
- High Precision, High Reliability – Robust DVB synchronization calls for key attributes in the SFN's timing reference. The DVB Sync Source addresses each of these attributes within the core architecture and option modules.
- Low Phase Noise – The timing source utilized to generate a signal on a channel can contribute to noise on that channel which can interfere with clear reception. Low phase noise in the timing source reduces that likelihood.

The DVB Sync Source will be shipping in December.

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