How to Meet the Timing Requirements for Executive Order 13905

How to Meet the Timing Requirements for Executive Order 13905

Decoding the Significance of Executive Order 13905’s Timing Requirements

In our interconnected and technology-driven world, the proper functioning of systems reliant on Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) services is pivotal for various sectors. Acknowledging the significance of these services, Executive Order 13905 was instituted with the objective of enhancing national resilience through the responsible use of Timing Requirements. This article delves into the key components of the executive order and the implications it holds for various stakeholders.

 

GPS Timing Requirements and Solutions

Syncworks can supply you with a turnkey PRTC solution to meet the timing requirements from Executive Order 13905. Resiliency, redundancy, and support after the sale is what will keep your timing in alignment with the demands of EO 13905.

Let’s breakdown each key objective and show how Syncworks can help you understand the implications of the intended goals.

Key Objectives and Measures of Timing Requirements Executive Order 13905:

The executive order outlines several objectives to achieve its intended goals, all centered around Timing Requirements:  

Risk Assessment and Mitigation
Government agencies and private sector entities are directed to conduct comprehensive risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities in their PNT-dependent systems. Mitigation strategies are then to be developed and implemented to enhance resilience against potential disruptions while meeting Timing Requirements.

Syncworks recommends: An audit performed by one of our Support Engineers. Here’s a link to our Sync Audits.

Public-Private Collaboration
Recognizing that PNT services are utilized across both public and private sectors, the order emphasizes the need for collaboration between government agencies and industry stakeholders. This partnership aims to facilitate information sharing, best practices, and coordinated responses in adherence to Timing Requirement.

Syncworks recommends: Let us consult on all critical infrastructure network, including public and private sectors. Here’s more information about vPRTC for Power Stations.

Additionally, Syncworks can design your network to reach the requirements of Executive Order 13905. As your timing partner, we specialize in designing and implementing efficient, secure, and scalable network solutions tailored to your specific needs. With a team of experienced professionals, we strive to deliver cutting-edge network designs that seamlessly integrate with your existing systems and help your network thrive.

Backup and Redundancy
The order encourages the implementation of backup and redundancy measures to ensure the availability of PNT services even in the face of disruptions while adhering to Timing Requirements. This could involve exploring alternative sources of PNT data or technologies that can provide reliable positioning and timing information.

Syncworks recommends: Primary Reference Time Clocks (PRTC) can deliver the back up and redundancy required by OE 13905.  Low earth orbit GPS signals, rubidium or crystal clocks in a box can also provide the back up needed.  Learn more about LEO here. We can do the audit and the design of your network to meet EO 13905. After the network is validated, you can depend on SyncCare to manage the all aspects of your timing to maintain it with accuracy.

Education and Awareness
To enhance understanding and awareness of PNT vulnerabilities, the order calls for educational initiatives aimed at promoting responsible use and cybersecurity practices among users of PNT services while adhering to Timing Requirements.

Syncworks educates at every turn to help stakeholders understand the equipment and the people required for ongoing timing excellence. 

Research and Development
The executive order highlights the importance of advancing research and development efforts to strengthen the security and resilience of PNT systems. This includes exploring innovative technologies that can enhance the accuracy, reliability, and security of PNT services while meeting timing requirements for Executive Order 13905.

Syncworks recommends: support for one the leading GPS authorities in the nation, GPS World.  Their research keeps the industry informed. In fact, it was GPS World that pushed back hard on the Department of Homeland Security in this article, calling the DHS report too late, too full of errors.

We think this kind of diligence will allow the US to meet the demands of any EO that deals with sync and timing from a GPS source.

GPS satellite orbits the earth

About Syncworks

Syncworks is a value-added reseller of network sync and timing equipment for critical infrastructure companies. SyncCare and Field Services ensure your network equipment is flawlessly executed and supported. Our warehouse is stocked with new Microchip products, as well as Symmetricom, Datum, Telecom Solutions, and Microsemi brands. 

Syncworks delivers the highest level of expertise to every project and offers a complete menu of network synchronization products and services. Our flagship product, the TimeProvider® 4100, is a gateway clock that accepts multiple inputs from Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), Synchronous Ethernet (SynE), and 1588 PTP Grandmaster Clock and E1/T1 digital transmission links.  

As a Microchip Diamond Partner, we maintain the largest and most diversified stocking supply of Microchip network sync & timing products to meet our customers’ every need when it comes to sync and timing technology.  

For more information, contact sales@syncworks.com or call (904) 280-1234

Where Is WISPAPALOOZA 2023?

Where Is WISPAPALOOZA 2023?

Update: Syncworks Heading to WISPAPALOOZA 2023 in Las Vegas

WISPAPALOOZA, the name given to WISPA’s annual trade show, is the ISP event of the year, October 9 – 12, 2023, at the Paris / Horseshoe, Las Vegas, Nevada. Syncworks has confirmed out exhibitor status and we are booking our flights for WISPA.

Want to talk timing while we are there? Click here to meet our exhibitors and book time during or after exhibitor hours.

Each year thousands of ISPs converge on WISPAPALOOZA to learn, connect and grow. Featuring over 2,500 ISP attendees, 170+ exhibitors, and more than 130 expert panel presentations, WISPAPALOOZA is jam-packed with up-to-the minute information, the latest hardware, software and services, and access to unparalleled expertise and helpful camaraderie, that will propel any ISP to the next level.

History of WIPSA and WISPAPALOOZA

WISPA, short for “Wireless Internet Service Providers Association,” is a non-profit trade association that represents the interests of wireless Internet service providers (WISPs) in the United States. WISPs are companies that offer internet access to rural and underserved areas using wireless technology.

The History of WISPA

Wispa dates back to the late 1990s when several WISPs realized the need for a collective voice to advocate for their interests and address common challenges. In 2004, a group of WISPs formed Wispa as a trade association dedicated to promoting the growth and success of the wireless internet industry. Since then, Wispa has been instrumental in shaping policies and regulations that affect WISPs and their customers.

 

One of the notable events organized by Wispa is WISPAPALOOZA. WISPAPALOOZA is an annual trade show and conference focused on the wireless internet industry. The event provides a platform for WISPs, technology vendors, industry experts, and other stakeholders to come together, exchange knowledge, showcase products and services, and network with peers.

WISPAPALOOZA features various activities and sessions aimed at addressing the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the industry. These may include keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, training sessions, product demonstrations, and networking events. The event attracts participants from across the United States and even internationally.

WISPAPALOOZA has gained a reputation as one of the premier events for the wireless internet industry, offering valuable insights, fostering collaboration, and promoting innovation. It serves as a hub for WISPs to stay updated on the latest technologies, regulatory developments, and best practices in the field.

Over the years, WISPAPALOOZA has grown in size and influence, reflecting the rapid evolution of the wireless internet industry. It has become a must-attend event for professionals, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts who are passionate about expanding broadband access and bridging the digital divide.

Through WISPAPALOOZA and other initiatives, Wispa continues to play a vital role in advocating for the interests of WISPs, promoting industry growth, and ensuring that wireless internet services reach underserved communities.

Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS): In Sync With Our Past

Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS): In Sync With Our Past

Hedy Lamaar, Co-Inventor of the Concept for FHSS Patent Shelved by the Navy. Now the basis for WIFI, Bluetooth, and GPS. 

Hedy Lamarr, born Hedwig Eva Maria Kiesler in 1914, was an Austrian-born American actress and inventor. While she is primarily known for her successful acting career in Hollywood during the 1930s and 1940s, Lamarr also made significant contributions to the field of technology, particularly in the development of a communication system known as Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS).

During World War II, Lamarr saw how Nazi U-boats were easily dodging Allied torpedoes. She asked a simple question: why can’t they change course mid-trip? Signal jamming was the answer. Along with composer George Antheil, they devised the concept of FHSS to overcome this problem. Antheil pondered the 88 keys on a piano keyboard and married it to the available radio frequencies. Lamarr and Antheil proposed a system that could change the frequency of communication rapidly and unpredictably, making it challenging for enemies to intercept or jam the signals. They received U.S. Patent No. 2,292,387. The Navy rejected the idea and shelved it. It took until 1957 when the concept was taken up by Sylvania Electronic Systems, and in 1962, it was used in military communications systems on U.S. ships sent to blockade Cuba.

The Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) technology developed by Lamarr and Antheil involved the use of a synchronized mechanism that hopped between different radio frequencies in a predetermined pattern. This hopping pattern allowed the transmitter and receiver to remain synchronized, enabling secure communication even in the presence of interference or intentional jamming.

Although their invention was not immediately implemented during the war, the concept of FHSS laid the foundation for modern spread spectrum communication systems. In the following decades, FHSS technology found widespread application in various fields, including military communications, wireless networks, and ultimately played a crucial role in the development of modern technologies like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

While Lamarr’s contributions to FHSS were not fully recognized during her lifetime, she received posthumous recognition for her groundbreaking work. In 1997, she and George Antheil were jointly awarded the Electronic Frontier Foundation’s Pioneer Award for their pioneering invention of FHSS, acknowledging their significant impact on modern communication systems. Hedy Lamarr was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame, some 14 years after her death

Heddy Lamarr’s legacy extends beyond her acting career, as her innovative thinking and contributions to technology continue to shape the wireless communication landscape to this day. Her work serves as a reminder of the extraordinary potential for creativity and innovation that can be found in unexpected places.

Composer/Inventor George Antheil black and white photo

George Antheil, an avant-garde composer known for pieces such as Ballet Mécanique and Airplane Sonata, had numerous other interests in addition to composing. After becoming friends with Hollywood actress Hedy Lamarr in 1940, the two found themselves discussing issues related to war time, including torpedoes.

From Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) To WIFI

802®: Unleashing the Power of Technological Connectivity and Beyond

For over four decades, the groundbreaking efforts of IEEE 802 Working Groups have reshaped the landscape of technological connectivity, revolutionizing the way people live, work, and communicate. At the forefront of this transformative journey lies the influential 802 family of standards, with one ubiquitous technology leading the charge: wireless local area networks (WLAN), better known as Wi-Fi.

Tracing its roots back to the original IEEE 802.11™ standards, this remarkable technology incorporated the visionary FHSS patent of the renowned inventor, Hedy Lamarr, even after its expiration in 1959. In 1997, the IEEE ratified this standard, utilizing the 2.4GHz radio frequency band and operating at data rates of 1 or 2 Mbps. True to Lamarr’s vision, the signal seamlessly hopped between frequencies, transmitting data efficiently and effectively.

Today, amidst advancements like Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) that mitigate signal interference and enhance the signal-to-noise ratio, FHSS continues to reign supreme, embodying ruggedness and reliability. Its reach extends far and wide, finding applications in diverse domains, from walkie-talkies to remote-controlled transmitters and receivers for model cars, boats, and drones.

Experience the unwavering legacy of 802® and its continuous pursuit of innovative connectivity solutions, taking technology far beyond what was once imagined.

About Syncworks

Syncworks is a value-added reseller of network sync and timing equipment for critical infrastructure companies. SyncCare and Field Services ensure your network equipment is flawlessly executed and supported. Our warehouse is stocked with new Microchip products, as well as Symmetricom, Datum, Telecom Solutions, and Microsemi brands. 

Syncworks delivers the highest level of expertise to every project and offers a complete menu of network synchronization products and services. Our flagship product, the TimeProvider® 4100, is a gateway clock that accepts multiple inputs from Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), Synchronous Ethernet (SynE), and 1588 PTP Grandmaster Clock and E1/T1 digital transmission links.  

As a Microchip Diamond Partner, we maintain the largest and most diversified stocking supply of Microchip network sync & timing products to meet our customers’ every need when it comes to sync and timing technology.  

For more information, contact sales@syncworks.com or call (904) 280-1234

Unleashing the Power of IEEE 1588: Engineering Standards for Precision Time Protocol (PTP)

Unleashing the Power of IEEE 1588: Engineering Standards for Precision Time Protocol (PTP)

IEEE 1588 Overview

In today’s fast-paced technological landscape, precision and synchronization play a crucial role in various industries. One engineering standard that stands out for its exceptional accuracy is IEEE 1588. By understanding the significance of this and how it benefits businesses, you can elevate your company’s reputation and products to new heights.

Value Add: IEEE Standards Interpretations for IEEE Std 1588™-2008 IEEE Standard for a Precision Clock Synchronization Protocol for Networked Measurement and Control Systems

The Foundation

Precision Time Protocol (PTP) is an engineering standard that enables precise time synchronization in distributed systems. It was developed to address the increasing demand for synchronized clocks in various industries, such as telecommunications, power grids, industrial automation, and financial trading. Unlike traditional clock synchronization methods, this institute leverages network-based synchronization, offering superior accuracy and flexibility.

The Working Principle

At its core, IEEE 1588 employs a master-slave architecture, where a designated master clock transmits timing information to slave clocks. This synchronization process relies on exchanging timestamped messages over the network, allowing slave clocks to adjust their time to match the master clock accurately. The protocol continually refines the synchronization to compensate for network delays, resulting in remarkably precise timekeeping across distributed systems.

Applications
The applications are widespread and diverse. In telecommunications, the standard ensures seamless synchronization between network elements, reducing latency and enhancing the quality of services like Voice over IP (VoIP) and video streaming. Industries such as power generation and distribution utilize IEEE 1588 to synchronize devices across substations, enabling efficient energy management and grid stability. Furthermore, IEEE 1588 finds applications in industrial automation, ensuring precise synchronization for distributed control systems, robotics, and time-sensitive processes.

two satellite dishes sit side by side

Advantages for Businesses

Unparalleled Precision:
One of the key advantages is its unparalleled precision. By achieving sub-microsecond synchronization accuracy, businesses can optimize their operations and workflows, reducing errors and improving overall efficiency. In sectors where timing is critical, such as financial trading, the accuracy provided by IEEE 1588 can make a significant difference in gaining a competitive edge.

Flexibility and Scalability:
IEEE 1588 offers remarkable flexibility and scalability, making it suitable for a wide range of environments and network topologies. Whether you have a small-scale local network or a large distributed system spanning multiple locations, the protocol can adapt to the needs of your business. Additionally, as your network expands, this technology can seamlessly accommodate new devices and maintain synchronization across the entire infrastructure.

Cost-Effective Solution:
Implementing this can be a cost-effective solution compared to alternative methods. By leveraging existing Ethernet infrastructure and standard network equipment, businesses can achieve precise synchronization without requiring specialized hardware or extensive investments. This cost-effectiveness, combined with the protocol’s accuracy, positions this tech as an attractive choice for organizations seeking to enhance their operations while minimizing expenses.

Future Success

Taking the Leap:
To fully leverage the benefits of IEEE 1588, it is crucial for businesses to evaluate their synchronization requirements and explore implementation options. Consulting with experts in the field can provide valuable insights and guidance tailored to your organization’s needs. You can unlock new possibilities, streamline processes, and gain a competitive advantage in your industry.

Continuing Your Journey:
To further expand your knowledge and understanding of this subject matter, consider exploring the following topics:

1. Best practices for implementing in different industries
2. The role in 5G networks and next-generation telecommunications
3. Advanced synchronization techniques and developments in this standard

Related Topics:
1. Network synchronization and precision timing protocols
2. Time-sensitive applications and their requirements
3. Industrial automation and the role of precise time synchronization
4. Network infrastructure optimization for enhanced performance

About Syncworks

Syncworks is an industry leader in delivering network synchronization and timing solutions to the telecommunications, utilities, and cable industries. For over two decades, we have helped our customers maintain, modernize and evolve their infrastructure to support the delivery of timing services over TDM and packet-based technologies critical for network QoS, meeting SLAs, and for emerging applications such as 5G mobile backhaul. Our industry-best engineering and implementation practices were developed, refined, and have been successfully proven on thousands of modernization projects across the US and Caribbean markets. 

Syncworks is the top diamond partner of Microchip (formerly Symmetricom), the global leader in synchronization and timing technology. We maintain the largest and most diversified stocking supply of legacy network sync & timing products to meet our customers’ every need when it comes to sync and timing technology. 

Through our SyncCare support program, our customers enjoy worry-free support and ultra-responsive customer service. 

Fiber Connect 2023 Full Schedule

Fiber Connect 2023 Full Schedule

Make Plans for Fiber Connect 2023

Fiber Connect 2022 was one of the largest conventions in history. This August it will be in Orlando, Florida at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center and it is expect to be their largest, most successful event ever. Syncworks will be in attendance. This Fiber Connect 2023 Full Schedule is meant to be an easier method to access the agenda only. See the links for the event site with their full details.

This year’s Fiber Connect will offer unique opportunities for business and market development, technology demonstration and peer-group interaction. The event will feature executives from a broad scope of industry sectors — traditional audiences as well as new audiences — commercial network operators, mobile network operators, electric cooperatives, municipalities, digital infrastructure asset owners and developers, investors, technology suppliers, enterprises and more.

The community who attends Fiber Connect 2023 is the primary driver of investment, deployment, and operation of next generation gigabit broadband networks. If your business requires gigabit and fiber connectivity, you should definitely make plans to be in Orlando this August.

See the full agenda below or the schedule at a glance.

Sunday, August 20, 2023

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET
Exhibitor Setup & Exhibitor Registration Open

11:00 AM – 7:00 PM ET
Registration Desk Opened

Favorite
12:30 PM – 5:30 PM ET
Community Broadband: Muni, CoOp, Utility Broadband Flex Their Reach

12:30 PM – 5:30 PM ETFBA Broadband Starter Kit

12:30 PM – 5:30 PM ET
Local Engagement Best Practices presented by FBA and NACo

12:30 PM – 5:30 PM ET
The Ecology of Fiber Broadband: Forging a Sustainable Future

12:30 PM – 5:30 PM ET
Tower Talks: Middle Mile and Fiber – Now We’re Talking

4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
First Time Attendees & New Member Meet Up

5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Welcome Reception

9:00 PM – 11:00 PM ET
Fiber Under 40 Meet Up

Monday, August 21, 2023

6:00 AM – 10:00 AM ET
Exhibitor Setup Continued
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM ET
Breakfast
7:00 AM – 6:00 PM ET
Registration Desk Opened
 
8:00 AM – 11:35 AM ET  GENERAL SESSION

9:45 AM – 10:10 AM ET
AM Break

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM ET
Lunch in Expo Hall For Full Conference Attendees Only

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM ET
Network Operators Luncheon Requires pre-registration

Favorite
11:30 AM – 6:00 PM ET

Expo Hall Open
11:45 AM – 2:45 PM ET
The C-Suite Forum By invitation only

12:30 PM – 1:20 PM ET
BREAKOUT SESSIONS

12:30 PM – 3:20 PM ET
TECHNOLOGY DEEP DIVES presented by The Broadband Forum

1:30 PM – 2:20 PM ET
BREAKOUT SESSIONS

2:30 PM – 3:20 PM ET
BREAKOUT SESSIONS

3:30 PM ET
Ribbon Cutting Opening of Fiber Connect 2023 Expo HallFavorite

3:40 PM – 5:40 PM ET

Expo Hall Theater SessionsFavorite

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM ET
DE&I Meet UpFavorite

6:00 PM ET
Expo Hall ClosesFavorite

8:00 PM – 10:00 PM ET
Havana Nights

Tuesday, August 22, 2023

7:00 AM – 8:00 AM ET
Breakfast For Full Conference Attendees Only

7:00 AM – 6:00 PM ET
Registration Desk Opened

8:00 AM – 11:35 AM ET
GENERAL SESSION

9:35 AM – 10:00 AM ET
AM Break

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM ETLunch in Expo Hall For Full Conference Attendees Only

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM ET
Public Officials Luncheon Requires pre-registration

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM ET
Women in Fiber Luncheon Requires pre-registration

11:30 AM – 6:00 PM ET
Fiber Connect 2023 Expo Hall Open

12:30 PM – 1:20 PM ET
BREAKOUT SESSIONS

12:30 PM – 3:20 PM ET
TECHNOLOGY DEEP DIVES

1:30 PM – 2:20 PM ET
BREAKOUT SESSIONS

1:30 PM – 3:00 PM ET
Meet Your State Broadband Representative
Speaker: Donovan Spann

2:30 PM – 3:20 PM ET
BREAKOUT SESSIONS

3:40 PM – 5:40 PM ET
Expo Hall Theater Sessions

4:45 PM – 5:40 PM ET
Women in Fiber Meet Up

5:40 PM ETDrawing of Passport Winners!Favorite

6:00 PM ET
Open Evening for Vendor Dinners and Events

Wednesday, August 23, 2023

7:00 AM – 8:00 AM ET
Breakfast For Full Conference Attendees Only

7:00 AM – 10:00 AM ETRegistration Desk Opened

8:00 AM – 11:20 AM ETThe State Broadband Summit

Favorite
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM ET
FBA Board Meeting & Lunch By invitation only

 

This is What’s New for FiberConnect 2023

Technology Deep Dives

Created in partnership with The Broadband Forum, The Technology Deep Dives, are four 90-minute sessions designed to explore the technical issues, challenges, and opportunities ahead as the industry looks to push the envelope on how operators can leverage fiber broadband more expansively.

Click here for more information!

The State Broadband Summit

The State Broadband Summit will take place on Wednesday, August 23rd from 8:00 – 11:30 AM.

As State Broadband Offices submit its five-year broadband roll out plans, FBA brings all parts of the fiber broadband ecosystem to discuss the path forward – the who, what, when and how, together, our industry will close the Digital Equity Gap for every community, household, and person.

Click here for more information!

Operator Light Talks

Operator Light Talks will occur on Monday & Tuesday during the General Session.

The 18-minute Ted Talk style keynotes on how an operator is enabling or planning to enable disruption within a specific market or industry – gaming, agriculture, education, healthcare, research, municipal services are all of interest. Focused on the ideas, approaches, or beliefs in what is possible once fiber networks reach everyone, everywhere.

Click here for more information!

Fiber Meet Ups

This is a great opportunity to meet fellow first timers, new members, Fiber Under 40, DE&I, and Women in Fiber attendees.

Click here for more information! 

About Syncworks

Syncworks is a value-added reseller of network sync and timing equipment for critical infrastructure companies. SyncCare and Field Services ensure your network equipment is flawlessly executed and supported. Our warehouse is stocked with new Microchip products, as well as Symmetricom, Datum, Telecom Solutions, and Microsemi brands. 

Syncworks delivers the highest level of expertise to every project and offers a complete menu of network synchronization products and services. Our flagship product, the TimeProvider® 4100, is a gateway clock that accepts multiple inputs from Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), Synchronous Ethernet (SynE), and 1588 PTP Grandmaster Clock and E1/T1 digital transmission links.  

As a Microchip Diamond Partner, we maintain the largest and most diversified stocking supply of Microchip network sync & timing products to meet our customers’ every need when it comes to sync and timing technology.  

For more information, contact sales@syncworks.com or call (904) 280-1234