GridTime™ 3000 GNSS Time Server

The GridTime 3000 GNSS time server enables users to execute a GNSS commissioning log, which serves to verify the proper installation of a device and its antenna. This log offers detailed information on each satellite, encompassing its utilization for timing purposes, visibility status, positional data and signal strength. Such comprehensive diagnostics ensure that upon setup, the antenna receives adequate GNSS reception for optimal performance. 

The GridTime 3000 GNSS time server features an advanced system logging capability that meticulously records all system activities, providing a detailed audit trail complete with precise time stamps. This enhances security measures and supports diagnostic procedures. The robust logging functionality ensures compliance with regulatory standards and facilitates efficient system monitoring and error traceability by accurately documenting and maintaining a record of every system event.

There are major changes to substation design philosophies underway, and utilities are looking toward the future to determine what substation architecture will look in years to come. To fill the needs of a changing environment, the GridTime™ 3000 GNSS time server has flexible licensing options to enable utilities to only enable the features they need, when they need them

When power surges are present in a substation network, it is critical that all devices continue to operate. All ports on the GridTime 3000 GNSS time server are electrically isolated to ensure continued operation if an unexpected surge or transient occurs.  

We have engineered the GridTime 3000 GNSS time server to keep the network going with redundant power supplies, multiple timing oscillators, firmware upgrade, downgrade verification and Parallel Redundancy Protocol (PRP) support. 

Although issues within any type of network are guaranteed to happen, the ability to ride out and recover from these issues is important.

Resilient timing is critical in any modern substation. The GridTime 3000 GNSS time server consists of multiple safeguards to ensure it can withstand unpredictable and adverse conditions. Mitigation techniques include malicious software checking, hardened components, advanced holdover options and compliance to IEC 61850-3 environmental standards. 

Cybersecurity threats are on the rise, and network administrators worldwide are working to protect their networks and the companies that own them. The move to digital interfaces and networking has led many power utilities to work to protect themselves and the people they serve. The GridTime 3000 GNSS time server uses secure boot and industry-standard access control to ensure only those with adequate permission can access, configure and control the system.

Our licensed feature model allows users to purchase the features they require at the time of original purchase or add them later as network requirements evolve. Our Clock Management Tool (CMT) makes it easy to add a new software-licensed capability where and when it is needed.

As networks evolve and grow, the number of connections needed will also continue to grow. We have outfitted the GridTime 3000 GNSS time server with the largest number of ports of any substation clock on the market.

The power industry uses several standardized timing protocols. The GridTime 3000 GNSS time server has the flexibility to support all relevant timing needs from a single platform.

Key protocols supported include:

• PTP
• NTP
• IRIG-B (B004-B007, B124-B127)
• Serial time strings
• T1/E1/J1
• Programmable pulses (PPS, PPM, PPH)
• DCF-77

The GridTime 3000 GNSS time server has 10 dedicated 1 Gb Ethernet ports, each equipped with NTP and PTP capabilities. These are connected to a dedicated microprocessor (MPU) to ensure precise and accurate time stamping of packets.

Additionally, the GridTime 3000 GNSS time server supports two optional SFP+ Ethernet interfaces for up to 10 Gbps. 

The GridTime 3000 GNSS time server uses a modern web interface for configuration and management of the device. The CMT is an HTTPS web-based interface that is hosted on internal system memory.

You can connect to the CMT by using the admin Ethernet or admin USB-C^® port and navigating to the IP address on the display using any modern browser.