In today’s connected world, precise time synchronization is the invisible backbone of industries. From financial trades to smart grids, from telecom towers to data centres — every millisecond matters. Without a trusted, unified time source, systems drift out of sync, creating errors that ripple across networks.

This is where GNSS-based time servers come in. By drawing signals from GPS, NavIC, and GLONASS satellites, they provide a reliable, universal reference clock that keeps critical infrastructure aligned and secure.

At SANDS India, we specialize in advanced time synchronization solutions — led by our flagship products, the Syntime and DRM 1010.

What is a GPS (GNSS) Clock?

A GNSS Clock is a specialized timekeeping device that receives signals from satellites orbiting the Earth. Since these satellites carry atomic clocks, the clocks can provide ultra-precise Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) to all connected systems.

Unlike traditional clocks, GNSS time servers:

• Do not drift or require manual adjustments
• Acts as a master clock providing precise time synchronization for IT, telecom, utility, industrial automation, airport, and pharma.
•  Deliver accuracy down to nanoseconds

GPS Clock receiving signals from satellites for precise time synchronization

Why is Time Synchronization So Important?

Even a fraction of a second can disrupt operations:

Power Utilities - Misaligned grid switching, unstable load distribution, event logging errors

Telecom Networks - Dropped calls, poor handovers, unstable 5G rollout

Financial Services - Inaccurate transaction timestamps, non-compliance with MiFID II or SEBI

IT & Data Centers - Server downtime, inconsistent logs, cybersecurity gaps

Industrial Plants - Automation errors, unsafe operations, production delays

Airports - Coordinates flight, ground, and communication systems safely.

Pharma - Ensures compliant batch tracking and precise environmental monitoring.

Oil & Gas - Synchronizes pipeline, drilling, and safety systems for reliable operations

Time synchronization isn’t optional — it’s mission-critical.

How Does a GNSS Time Server Work?

• Satellite Reception – Signals received from GPS, NavIC, and GLONASS satellites
• Processing & Discipline – Decoded with high-stability oscillators
• Distribution – Shared with connected devices via:
•  NTP/SNTP over Ethernet
•  PTP (IEEE 1588) for substation automation & telecom
•  IRIG-B, PPS, Serial outputs for legacy equipment

How GNSS Time Server and NTP Server synchronize devices in industries

Which SANDS GNSS Time Server Should You Choose?

👉 Simple rule of thumb:

• Choose SYNTIME if you need high availability and compliance.
• Choose DRM 1010 if you need rugged, cost-effective sync in the field.

Applications of GNSS Time Synchronization

• Power & Energy Utilities – Grid synchronization, phasor measurement, fault logging
• IT & Data Centres – Server timestamping, log consistency, cybersecurity compliance
• Telecom – Mobile tower synchronisation, smooth 5G handovers
• Financial Services – High-frequency trading, regulatory compliance
• Industrial & Manufacturing – Robotics, precision, safety systems, production tracking

Supporting Ecosystem

• Alongside the Syntime and DRM 1010, SANDS provides:
• Slave Display Clocks for factories, Power utility, airports, and hospitals
• IRIG-B Boosters to expand timing signals across devices
• Protocol Converters (IRIG-B ↔ NTP, Ethernet ↔ Fiber)

This ensures compatibility with both modern IT networks and legacy equipment.

SANDS GNSS Time Servers — Syntime ST3 and DRM 1010 for utilities and industries

SANDS GNSS Time Server Explained – Q&A Guide

Q1: Is GNSS time more accurate than an internet time server?

 Yes. GNSS time comes directly from satellites’ atomic clocks, with nanosecond precision. Internet NTP servers can introduce delays due to network hops.

Q2: Do I need both a GNSS Clock and an NTP Server?

 Not separately. Devices like the SANDS Syntime and DRM 1010 combine satellite reception and NTP/PTP distribution in one.

Q3: Can GNSS time servers work indoors?

 GNSS antennas are typically mounted outdoors for satellite visibility. Signals are then routed indoors to the server. 

Q4: Why do industries prefer SANDS GNSS time servers?

 Because they support GPS + NavIC + GLONASS, deliver nanosecond accuracy, and offer redundant power, modular outputs, and IEC compliance.

Q5: What is the difference between GPS, GNSS, and NavIC?

• GPS is the U.S. satellite navigation system.
• GNSS is the umbrella term for all systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, NavIC, QZSS).
• NavIC is India’s regional navigation system

Q6: How accurate are GNSS time servers like Syntime and DRM 1010?

 They provide nanosecond-level timing accuracy and distribute it with microsecond precision across networks.

Q7: What happens if the GNSS signal is lost?

 Both devices use holdover oscillators to maintain accurate time until signals are restored.

Q8: Can SANDS GNSS time servers integrate with legacy systems?

 Yes. They support NTP/PTP plus IRIG-B AM, IRIGB PWM, RS232/485, and pulse outputs, ensuring backward compatibility.

Q9: Do I need multiple time servers for redundancy?

 For mission-critical sites, the best practice is two time servers. The Syntime supports redundant configurations, while the DRM 1010 can be deployed in pairs for distributed backup.

Take the Next Step

Accurate time isn’t just a technical requirement — it’s the foundation of reliable operations.

Discover how the SANDS Syntime and DRM 1010 can safeguard your network, streamline compliance, and future-proof your infrastructure. Contact📞 sales@sandsindia.com 🌐 www.sandsindia.com