What’s The Difference Between GPS and NTP Synchronized Clocks?

It’s no secret that synchronized clocks are critical in keeping your business on track. Mismatched clocks throughout a facility can cause meetings to start late, employees to miss deadlines, and even problems in your human resources department due to employees making mistakes on their time cards. If you have looked into installing synchronized time into your facility, you may know that a master clock controls all of the secondary clocks. The master clock keeps its time through one of two methods, global positioning system (GPS) or network time protocol (NTP). If you have been curious about the difference between these two methods, keep reading.

GPS Clock System

A GPS clock uses global positioning satellites to keep synchronized clocks running throughout your network. GPS master clocks are considered to be more accurate than other types of master clocks. In fact, all 31 working satellites of the GPS have built-in, highly accurate atomic clocks. These satellites communicate with your master clock via an antenna that is installed on your roof. It only takes a GPS master clock around 30 seconds to locate a satellite, then it will continuously update all secondary clocks. They also have the ability to adjust for daylight savings time, so you won’t need to worry about adjusting the time throughout your building. Many GPS clock owners also enjoy the fact that these clocks are completely maintenance-free.

ty to adjust for daylight savings time, so you won’t need to worry about adjusting the time throughout your building. Many GPS clock owners also enjoy the fact that these clocks are completely maintenance-free.

NTP Clock Systems

An NTP master clock keeps synchronized clocks on time by connecting with an Ethernet cable. Once connected, you will be able to login from any computer to adjust the clock’s function, or set the time to a different time zone. Your NTP clock will also acquire its own internet protocol (IP) address once it is connected. Although NTP clocks are slightly less reliable than GPS clocks, they are easier and less expensive to install.

Final Thoughts

Time is a valuable commodity your business can’t afford to lose. Synchronized clocks offer an easy, low-maintenance way to keep your business on time and running smoothly. The most common methods of keeping synchronized time are GPS clocks and NTP clocks. While GPS master clocks are more accurate, NTP clocks are cheaper to install. Regardless of which method you choose, however, both are relatively maintenance-free and can automatically account for daylight savings time. Contact TimeMachines Corp. for more information today!