Short History of Symmetricom – A Leader in Network Timing Equipment

Symmetricom, founded in 1985, was a company that specialized in providing precision timekeeping and synchronization solutions. The company played a significant role in shaping the landscape of technologies related to accurate timekeeping, which is critical for various industries, including telecommunications, aerospace, defense, and more. The history of Symmetricom is marked by a series of developments and innovations that contributed to its reputation as a leader in the field. Here are some key points in the history of Symmetricom:

1. **Foundation and Early Years (1985-1990):**
– Symmetricom was established in 1985, and it initially focused on developing technologies for precise time and frequency standards.
– During its early years, Symmetricom became known for its commitment to providing accurate and reliable solutions, earning trust in industries where precise timing was essential.

2. **Expansion and Diversification (1990s):**
– In the 1990s, Symmetricom expanded its portfolio to include a broader range of timing and synchronization products.
– The company’s technologies became increasingly important as telecommunications networks evolved, requiring more precise synchronization for efficient data transmission.

3. **Acquisitions and Growth (2000s):**
– Symmetricom experienced growth through strategic acquisitions. Notably, in 2002, Symmetricom acquired Datum, a company specializing in precision time and frequency solutions, strengthening its position in the market.
– The acquisition of Datum allowed Symmetricom to enhance its product offerings and better serve the diverse needs of its customers.

4. **Innovations in Timing Solutions:**
– Symmetricom was at the forefront of developing innovative timing solutions, including atomic clocks, GPS-based timing systems, and network synchronization devices.
– The company’s products were widely adopted in telecommunications networks, financial systems, scientific research, and other industries requiring precise timekeeping.

5. **SyncServer Unit 2000 (SSU 2000):**
– The SyncServer Unit 2000 (SSU 2000) was one of Symmetricom’s notable products. Introduced to meet the demands of telecommunications networks, it offered advanced features, including multiple timing inputs, high-stability oscillators, and redundant power supplies.

6. **Later Years and Acquisition by Microsemi (2013):**
– In 2013, Symmetricom faced financial challenges, and Microsemi Corporation, a semiconductor company, acquired Symmetricom.
– The acquisition aimed to integrate Symmetricom’s precision timing technologies with Microsemi’s portfolio, creating a more comprehensive suite of solutions for customers.

7. **Legacy and Impact:**
– Symmetricom’s legacy lies in its contributions to precision timekeeping technologies. The company’s innovations and products continue to influence the development of synchronization solutions in various industries.

While Symmetricom is no longer an independent entity, its history reflects its commitment to advancing the field of precision timing, leaving a lasting impact on industries that rely on accurate timekeeping for critical operations.

For more information about the Symmetricom SSU 2000, please visit this blog post.

Symmetricom Founders

The history of Symmetricom started in 1985 when the company was founded by a team of entrepreneurs with a vision for advancing precision timekeeping technologies. The founding members played a crucial role in establishing the company and shaping its direction in the emerging field of synchronization solutions. While specific details about each founder may not be readily available, an overview of the founding team’s collective efforts provides insights into Symmetricom’s early years and the history of Symmetricom.

 

 

 

1. **Charles Trimble:**
– Charles Trimble was one of the key figures in the founding of Symmetricom. He is renowned for co-founding Trimble Navigation Limited, a company specializing in GPS technology. Trimble’s expertise in the field of navigation and positioning likely contributed to their early focus on precision timekeeping using technologies such as GPS.

2. **Robert Schimp:**
– Robert Schimp was another founder of Symmetricom, and his background and contributions to the company are not as extensively documented. However, his role in the early stages of Symmetricom’s establishment would have been significant in shaping the company’s goals and strategies.

3. **Tom Baer:**
– Tom Baer is listed as one of the founders of Symmetricom. His expertise may have been instrumental in guiding the technical aspects of the company, especially in developing innovative solutions for precision timekeeping.

4. **Richard Schwartz:**
– Richard Schwartz is also noted as one of the founders. His background and specific contributions to Symmetricom’s founding are not as widely detailed, but as a co-founder, he likely played a pivotal role in the company’s early development.

The combination of expertise in navigation, technology, and business likely facilitated the establishment of Symmetricom as a leader in precision timekeeping solutions. The founders’ vision and strategic decisions contributed to the company’s growth and success in providing synchronization solutions for industries with critical timing requirements.

While the individual contributions of each founder might not be extensively documented, their collective efforts laid the foundation for Symmetricom’s legacy in the field of precision timekeeping technologies. Symmetricom’s journey, from its founding to its eventual acquisition by Microsemi, reflects the impact of visionary leaders in the evolving landscape of synchronization and timing solutions.

About Syncworks

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 [email protected] or call (904) 280-1234