Time Sync
A-TSM/B
1588, PTP, Grand Master, Clock, Synchronization, Sync, timesync, NTP, EtherNet/IP, DIN-Rail, Antenna, GPS, Precision Time Protocol, Modbus, SLC, Rockwell, Logix, ControlLogix, CompactLogix, SLC, PLC5, IEEE802.3, Universal Time, Synchronize, SOE.
The Time Sync module provides Precision Time Protocol (PTP - Grand Master) and NTP Time services. This enables precision time synchronization for Logix Controllers and HMI systems. It can also provide GPS position data.
- Cost effective time synchronization solution
- Cross Platform (DCS, PLC, CompactLogix, ControlLogix, Electrical Protection Systems, Modbus)
- Support for Legacy PLC5/SLC time synchronization
- 1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP) master
- 1588 PTP Network Transport UDP or IEEE802.3
- Network Time Protocol (NTP) master or slave
- High accuracy time synchronization (onboard GPS receiver)
- Isolated GPS Receiver
- Position, Velocity and odometer readings
- Supports GPS Spoofing detection

Overview
GPS Time and Position Modes
The Time Sync module has optimized modes for both Time and Position functions and a custom mode as detailed below.
Mode | Description |
Time | The module is configured to only use the GPS constellation for best time accuracy. |
Position | The module is configured to use GPS, SBAS and GLONASS satellite constellations to provide the most accurate positioning information. |
Custom | This mode allows the user to select the constellations that are needed for the required application. |
Free Config Software
The Time Sync module is configured using the Aparian's Slate application. Slate offers various configuration methods. Slate can be downloaded here.
Sync with 1588 PTP and NTP Services
The module is a stand-alone device allowing it to operate across various platforms. The module can also seamlessly connect and integrate with Rockwell Automation’s Allen Bradley equipment. The module can operate in either a Logix “owned” or standalone mode. In stand-alone mode the module can be configured and connected to an Ethernet network to accurately synchronize devices using 1588 PTP and NTP. With a Logix connection the input and output assemblies will provide timing, positioning, and diagnostic information which will be available in the Logix controller environment in addition to the PTP and NTP services.
Current Time using Modbus TCP
The module can update a single Modbus slave device using Modbus TCP providing current time data.
Less Expensive Installation
The module uses an on-board GPS receiver to provide accurate time and position information. Because the module is stand-alone and connects to various devices over an Ethernet network the module can be placed as close as possible to the antenna position removing the need for costly low-loss coaxial cables.
GPS Position and Velocity
The on-board GPS receiver also provides velocity and an odometer reading allowing the user to implement the module in various vehicle and tracking applications. The GPS accuracy information provides the user/controller with quality metrics for the position, velocity, and odometer information.
NTP to PTP Synchronization
The Time Sync module can synchronize its internal clock to an external NTP source and then provide PTP messages synchronized to NTP source.
Status & Diagnostics
A built-in webserver provides detailed diagnostics of system configuration and operation, including the display of GPS time, position, and velocity, without the need for any additional software.
Application
Example of a typical network for a timing application:
Example of a typical position and velocity application:
Stacker / Reclaimer Example:
Specification
Electrical
Specification | Rating |
Power requirements | Input: 10 – 28V DC, (70 mA @ 24 VDC) |
Power consumption | 1.7 W |
Connector | 3-way terminal |
Conductors | 24 – 18 AWG |
Enclosure rating | IP20, NEMA/UL Open Type |
Temperature | -20 – 70 °C |
Earth connection | Yes, terminal based |
Emissions | IEC61000-6-4 |
ESD Immunity | EN 61000-4-2 |
Radiated RF Immunity | IEC 61000-4-3 |
EFT/B Immunity | EFT: IEC 61000-4-4 |
Surge Immunity | Surge: IEC 61000-4-5 |
Conducted RF Immunity | IEC 61000-4-6 |
Ethernet
Specification | Rating |
Connector | RJ45 |
Conductors | CAT5 STP/UTP |
ARP connections | Max 20 |
TCP connections | Max 20 |
CIP connections | Max 10 |
Communication rate | 10/100Mbps |
Duplex mode | Full/Half |
Auto-MDIX support | Yes |
GPS
Specification | Rating |
Antenna Port | SMA-Female |
Supported Constellations | GPS / QZSS, GLONASS, SBAS, BeiDou |
Velocity accuracy | 0.05 m/s |
Heading accuracy | 0.3 degrees |
Horizontal position accuracy | 2.0m (SBAS), 2.5m (autonomous) - (50% CEP - static) |
Accuracy of time pulse signal | 60ns |
Altitude limit | 50,000m |
Velocity limit | 500 m/s |
GPS Antenna
Specification | Rating |
Antenna Connector | SMA-Male |
Cable Length | 3m |
Cable Type | RG174 |
Antenna Type | Active |
Active Gain | 27dB (typical) |
Noise Figure | 1.5 (maximum) |
Voltage | 2.7-5.5Vdc |
Temperature | -35°C to +85 °C |
Enclosure description | Rugged low profile, UV resistant. |
Certifications
Specification | Rating |
CE Mark | ![]() |
RCM | ![]() |
KCC | ![]() |
UL Listed FILE: E494895 |
CLASS 1, DIV 2, GROUPS A, B, C, D Note: The TSM/B UL Hazardous Certification extends to include the antenna and antenna cable, provided that:
|
ODVA Conformance | ![]() |
RoHS3 Compliant | ![]() |
Dimensions
Downloads
Documents





Examples




EDS Files

Firmware

