IRIG-B Time Code Generators

IRIG-B Time Code Generators

IRIG-B is usually distributed as DC-level shifts, pulse-width coded signal (“unmodulated IRIG-B”) suitable for direct connection into digital systems, or as an amplitude-modulated signal based on a sine wave carrier with a frequency of 1kHz (“modulated IRIG-B”) suitable for recording onto magnetic tape or for transmission over some other band-limited medium. While the IRIG 200-04 standard does not define specific signal levels or application details, IRIG-B is typically distributed as an unmodulated TTL-level signal over shielded twisted-pair or coaxial cable.

Masterclock manufactures several devices that can generate IRIG-B time code.

GMR1000 and GMR5000 Master Clocks

The GMR1000 and GMR5000 master clocks can reference GPS, GNSS, time code, NEMA 0183, or frequency signals and generate IRIG-B0, IRIG-B1, IRIG-A, IRIG-E or SMPTE/EBU. They can also act as an NTP server, PTP grandmaster or frequency generator if your system requires multiple timing signals. AES256 SHA2 encryption ensures your network will stay secure, and SNMP can be used for monitoring and configuration. With optional OCXO, holdover stability is ±0.25 seconds/year. A rubidium option is also available on the GMR5000 for mission-critical applications.

GPS500 GPS Time Code Generator

The GPS500 is a precision IRIG-B time code generator. It receives reference time information from atomic clocks in GPS satellites, extracting timing reference from these signals, and generates time code synchronized to less than 10 microseconds of UTC (Universal Coordinated Time). If the GPS500 loses connection to GPS satellites, it reverts to an internal TCXO. The GPS500 generates IRIG-B in 1kHz modulated and un-modulated (pulse-width coded) format.  The GPS500 also outputs: SMPTE, EBU:30, 25 or 24fps, PPS, NMEA, Kinemetrics/Truetime protocol,  and date-encoded references (IRIG 1344 and SMPTE Leitch date format or 309M).

Contact a timing expert today to discuss your system needs.