FAQs

About Syncworks and Our Services

What does Syncworks do?

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Syncworks specializes in network timing and synchronization solutions. We design, implement, and support robust and precise timing infrastructures for critical sectors such as Telecommunications, Power Utilities, Cable, and other industries that depend on accurate time for their operations. We offer a full lifecycle approach, from initial consultation to ongoing support.

Is Syncworks an equipment manufacturer?

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Syncworks is a diamond partner and systems integrator for Microchip Frequency and Time Systems (formerly Symmetricom), a world leader in timing technology. While we don’t manufacture the core hardware, our expertise lies in integrating these cutting-edge solutions, complementing them with our specialized services in design, installation, SyncCare support, and training to deliver a complete and
optimized solution.

Which industries does Syncworks serve?

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We primarily serve the Telecommunications (Service Providers), Power Utilities (including digital substations and IEC 61850 compliance), Cable (for applications like Remote PHY), Municipal Services, and Enterprise sectors, along with other critical infrastructures that require precise synchronization.

What is the "full lifecycle management" Syncworks offers?

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It means we partner with our clients every step of the way: from initial assessment and timing
architecture design, through validation and on-site installation, to ongoing SyncCare technical support, maintenance, and training, ensuring your network remains accurate and reliable over time.

As technology evolves, so do we. Support continues through the multiple generations of timing systems, with updated education and guidance to keep teams prepared for emerging challenges and innovations.

Synchronization and Timing Technologies

What is PTP (Precision Time Protocol) and why is it important?

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PTP, standardized as IEEE 1588, is a protocol designed to distribute high precision timing
(nanosecond or microsecond level) over packet-based networks. It is crucial for modern applications such as 5G, digital substations, and industrial automation, which demand stringent phase and time alignment.

What's the difference between PTP and NTP (Network Time Protocol)?

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Both are time synchronization protocols, but PTP is designed for much higher accuracy
(microseconds to nanoseconds) compared to NTP (milliseconds). PTP is generally used in local or dedicated networks with hardware support to achieve its precision, while NTP is more common in wide area networks (WANs) and for general IT system synchronization. Syncworks has expertise in both technologies and their integration.

What is SyncE (Synchronous Ethernet)?

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SyncE is a technology that enables the distribution of precise frequency over the physical layer. It’s often used in telecommunication networks, frequently in conjunction with PTP, to provide a stable frequency reference for PTP clocks.

What is holdover and why is it important for synchronization?

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Holdover is a clock’s ability to maintain its accuracy for a specific period after losing its primary time reference (like a GNSS signal). It is crucial for network resilience, ensuring that synchronization continues to operate during primary source failures or interruptions. Some commonly found in a resilient network are Rubidium and Cesium oscillator clocks to provide robust holdover capabilities.

What are PRTC, ePRTC, and vPRTC?

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  1. PRTC (Primary Reference Time Clock): A high-precision clock (typically < ±100 ns to UTC) that serves as the primary source of time for a PTP network.
  2. ePRTC (Enhanced PRTC): An even more stringent standard (< ±30 ns to UTC) with extended holdover requirements (e.g., maintaining < ±100 ns for at least 14 days without GNSS), typically using Cesium atomic clocks.
  3. vPRTC (Virtual PRTC): A network architecture, often over DWDM (optical fiber), that uses HighPerformance Boundary Clocks (HPBCs) to extend the time quality of a central PRTC/ePRTC to
    multiple points in the network with minimal degradation.

GNSS Vulnerabilities and Solutions

Why is GNSS considered vulnerable for timing applications?

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GNSS signals are low-power and can be affected by jamming (intentional or unintentional
interference), spoofing (transmission of false signals), atmospheric effects, urban canyons, and satellite failures. Over-reliance on GNSS without adequate mitigation poses a significant risk to critical infrastructures.

How does Syncworks help mitigate GNSS vulnerabilities?

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We offer a multi-layered approach:

  1. Resilient Design: Architectures that do not solely depend on GNSS at every point, utilizing ePRTC/vPRTC and protected central time sources.
  2. Robust Holdover: Implementation of highly stable oscillators (Rubidium, Cesium) to maintain synchronization during GNSS outages.
  3. Multi-Band / Multi-Constellation GNSS: We enhance timing resilience by using receivers that support multiple GNSS constellations (GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, BeiDou) and multiple frequency bands (L1, L2, and L5), significantly improving accuracy and resistance to interference.
  4. GNSS Firewalls: Integration of solutions like Microchip’s BlueSkyâ„¢ to detect and protect against jamming and spoofing.
  5. Risk Assessment: Analyzing your infrastructure to identify and address GNSS vulnerability points.

Products and Support

What types of products does Syncworks offer?

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We offer a full range of synchronization solutions, including PTP Grandmasters and NTP Servers ( TimeProvider® 4×00 and SyncServer® S6x0), Boundary Clocks, Cesium Atomic Clocks (TimeCesium®), GNSS antennas and accessories, and management software (TimePictra®).

What is SyncCare and what benefits does it offer?

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SyncCare is Syncworks’ comprehensive technical support program. It provides 24/7 access to timing specialists, software maintenance, advanced hardware replacement, and a domestic next-day loaner program. Optional training can also be included; all designed to maximize system uptime and
reduce the total cost of ownership for synchronization infrastructure.

Do you offer installation and training services?

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Yes. Our Field Services include assessment, design, professional installation, testing, and validation of synchronization systems. Customized training programs are also offered, available remotely or onsite, to equip teams to manage and maintain timing infrastructure.

How can I request a quote or more information?

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You can contact us via the form on our website, email us at sales@syncworks.com or info@syncworks.com, or call us at (904) 280-1234. We’ll be happy to discuss your specific needs.

Syncworks Training

What training formats do you offer?

We provide both remote virtual training sessions and on-site hands-on training. Remote sessions are convenient for geographically distributed teams and include recordings for future reference. On-site training offers direct interaction with your specific equipment and network environment.

How do you customize training for different technical skill levels?

We tailor curriculum based on audience needs – from fundamental timing concepts for network architects to detailed configuration procedures for field technicians and monitoring protocols for NOC staff. Pre-training assessments help us match content to skill levels.

What topics are covered in your training programs?

Core topics include PTP/IEEE 1588 fundamentals, advanced PTP profiles (Telecom, Power), Syncworks product operation and maintenance, GNSS best practices and vulnerability mitigation, troubleshooting synchronization issues, and industry-specific applications.

How does the training credits system work?

Training credits provide maximum flexibility – purchase credits annually and allocate them across different training modules, teams, and delivery formats throughout the year. Credits can be used for custom curriculum development, standard courses, or specialized technical sessions.

Do you provide training certificates or documentation?

Yes, participants receive certificates of completion for all training programs, along with comprehensive training materials, reference documentation, and access to recorded sessions (for virtual training). We can also provide customized certificates for specific compliance requirements.

Can you train our team on competitor products or general timing concepts?

While our expertise centers on Microchip/Syncworks solutions, we provide broader education on timing fundamentals, industry standards, and integration concepts that apply across vendor platforms. This helps your team understand timing holistically within your network environment.

How do you measure training effectiveness and provide ongoing support?

We conduct post-training assessments, provide follow-up Q&A sessions, and offer ongoing technical consultation to reinforce learning. Our goal is ensuring your team can confidently apply training concepts in their daily operations, with continued access to our experts as needed.

Network Design Services

What's included in a Syncworks network timing assessment?

Our comprehensive assessment evaluates your current timing infrastructure, identifies performance gaps, analyzes GNSS vulnerabilities, reviews compliance requirements, and assesses your network topology. We provide a detailed report with recommendations for optimization, modernization, and risk mitigation strategies

How long does the network design process typically take?

Timeline varies based on network complexity and scope. Simple assessments take 2-4 weeks, while comprehensive custom designs for large networks can take 6-12 weeks. We provide detailed project timelines during our initial consultation and work closely with your team to meet critical deployment deadlines.

Do you design solutions for mixed legacy and modern timing networks?

Absolutely. We specialize in hybrid architectures that integrate legacy TDM/BITS systems with modern PTP/NTP solutions. Our designs ensure seamless migration paths while maintaining operational continuity throughout the transition process.

What standards and compliance requirements do your designs address?

Our designs incorporate all relevant industry standards including ITU-T (G.8275.x series), IEEE 1588, 3GPP timing requirements, IEC 61850 for power utilities, and sector-specific compliance mandates like NERC CIP for utilities and Executive Order 13905 for federal agencies.

Can you design timing solutions that reduce our dependence on GNSS/GPS?

Yes, this is one of our core specialties. We design resilient architectures using ePRTC/vPRTC technologies, enhanced holdover capabilities, and distributed timing that significantly reduce GNSS dependency while maintaining precision and compliance requirements.

Do you provide documentation and training on the designed solution?

Yes, we deliver comprehensive documentation including network diagrams, equipment specifications, installation guidelines, and operational procedures. Training on the designed architecture is available as part of our Syncworks Training services.

What happens if our requirements change during the design process?

We build flexibility into our design process and maintain close communication throughout. Changes are managed through structured change requests with clear documentation of impacts on timeline, cost, and technical requirements.

Technical Support and Maintenance

What's included in the SyncCare 24/7 support program?

SyncCare includes round-the-clock access to US-based timing specialists, platform maintenance with software updates and security patches, advanced hardware replacement through our loaner program, and access to our technical assistance center with defined SLA response times.

How quickly do you respond to critical timing issues?

Our standard SLA provides response within 60 minutes for critical issues. Response times may vary based on your specific SyncCare plan, with premium options offering even faster response for mission-critical environments.

How does the loaner program work during equipment failures?

When hardware failure occurs, we immediately ship a matching or equivalent replacement unit to minimize downtime. You can use the loaner for up to 60 days while we repair or replace your original equipment. Return shipping is included in the program.

Do you provide support for equipment not purchased from Syncworks?

Our primary support focus is on Microchip/Syncworks timing solutions. However, we can provide consultation and guidance on integration challenges with third-party equipment within the context of your overall timing architecture.

What types of software maintenance are included?
What types of software maintenance are included?

We provide firmware updates, security patches, performance optimizations, new feature releases, and compatibility updates. All software maintenance is tested in our lab environment before release to ensure stability and performance.

Can SyncCare support be customized for our specific needs?

Yes, we offer flexible SyncCare plans that can be tailored to your operational requirements, budget, and criticality levels. We can adjust response times, coverage hours, hardware replacement options, and support scope based on your needs.

How do you handle support for geographically distributed networks?

Our centralized support team manages distributed networks through remote diagnostics, coordination with local technicians when needed, and strategic placement of loaner inventory. We maintain detailed network documentation to provide effective remote support regardless of location.

Field and Installation Services

What types of sites can Syncworks Field Services support?

We support all critical infrastructure environments including telecom central offices, cell towers, power substations, data centers, cable headends, and enterprise facilities. Our technicians are trained in diverse site requirements and safety protocols for each environment type.

How do you ensure installation quality and accuracy?

Every installation follows our detailed Installation Best Practices guide, includes pre-installation site surveys, uses certified technicians, and concludes with comprehensive testing and validation. We provide detailed completion reports with performance metrics and photographic documentation.

Do you handle antenna installations and GNSS systems?

Yes, antenna installation is a core specialty. We handle optimal placement for sky view, proper grounding, lightning protection, weatherproofing, and cable routing. Our experience includes hundreds of antenna installations across diverse geographic and environmental conditions.

What safety certifications do your field technicians have?

Our technicians maintain current safety certifications including PPE training, electrical safety (LOTO procedures), ladder and lift safety, harness safety for elevated work, and site-specific certifications required for telecom and utility environments.

Can you work around our operational schedule to minimize disruptions?

Absolutely. We coordinate closely with your operations team to schedule installations during maintenance windows, off-peak hours, or planned outages. Our project managers work with you to develop installation schedules that minimize impact on critical operations.

Do you provide emergency field services for critical failures?

Yes, our SyncCare support program includes emergency dispatch services. We can deploy field engineers within 48 hours for critical, service-affecting events, with emergency response protocols tailored to your specific needs and SLA requirements.

What geographic areas do your field services cover?

We provide field services throughout North America and the Caribbean. For locations outside our primary service area, we work with certified partners or provide remote technical guidance to qualified local technicians following our installation standards.