Semtech updates TopSync platform to provides signal timing for legacy and next-generation wireless networks

July 28, 2011 // Paul Buckley

Semtech Corp., has released a new ToPSync firmware update for the ACS9510 which claims to deliver best in class time accuracy while driving down the cost of time delivery systems for 2G, 3G and LTE networks.

The platform delivers a complete IEEE1588v2 precision time protocol (PTP) solution that makes it possible for wireless carriers to build their backhaul networks using low-cost Ethernet-based wireless services.

The ACS9510 is a 360 pin, 20 mm x 20 mm, 1 mm pitch multi-role device that can be used to provide synchronous equipment timing source (SETS) functionality in traditional TDM equipment (TDM timing mode) as well as standards-based timing for equipment used in packet switched networks (PTP grandmaster and PTP slave modes). The ToPSync version 5.1 firmware release implements major advances in time alignment performance while enabling savings in cost.

ACS9510 is a fully integrated and configurable synchronization platform. Thanks to its ability to perform as a PTP master, slave or boundary clock as well as natively manage layer one clocks, the ACS9510 can operate in any point of the timing delivery network. Internal ITU-compliant SETS functions reduce the necessity for external components, such as PLLs or frequency translators, because the ACS9510 manages all layer one sync requirements. The ToPSync software is self-contained within the ACS9510 device and no real-time process is required on any external CPU. The combination of embedded PLLs and algorithms makes the ACS9510 simple to integrate, allowing wireless equipment customers to meet tight time-to-market requirements.

The newly released ToPSync 5.1 firmware enables a single ACS9510 device to operate as a full IEEE 1588 boundary clock via two independently configurable slave and master PTP ports. Release 5.1 marks the introduction of hybrid mode, a new operation where an external clock, such as sync-Ethernet 25 MHz clock, is interleaved with PTP to deliver better time delivery performance than PTP alone.

The AC9510 ToPSync firmware release 5.1 is available immediately as a free upgrade for ACS9510 owners. Semtech offers comprehensive design assistance, including field- and factory-based support. Datasheets, volume pricing, and delivery quotes, as well as evaluation kits and samples, are available upon request.

Visit Semtech at www.semtech.com.

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December 15, 2011 | Texas instruments | 222901974

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