Old clocks aren’t necessarily your network’s weakest link, but their aging components might be. When a legacy clock starts showing its age, the first instinct might be to replace it entirely. But that’s rarely the most cost-effective or practical solution, especially when those clocks still distribute timing reliably. A smarter approach is to perform targeted upgrades that keep your network running reliably without unnecessary downtime or disruption.

Don’t throw that old clock away … yet

Many central offices still rely on BITS shelves built around two elements: a primary reference clock (PRC) with its own GPS antenna and a main shelf containing input, output, management and rubidium holdover modules. After decades of service, the most common points of failure are rubidium oscillators and proprietary antennas.

Rather than ripping out shelves that still distribute timing effectively, it makes sense to replace only the weak links. Our OSA 5422 or redundant OSA 5430 can drop in for the failed PRC and antenna, restoring a rock-solid reference and adding multi-constellation GNSS and PTP synchronization. This avoids truck rolls and downtime, extends the life of your existing infrastructure, and adds many of the timing capabilities your next-generation packet build will require.

The Canadian hydropower example

A major hydropower operator in Canada recently showed how modernizing rather than overhauling a timing network can be a win-win. Like many utilities, the operator needed to transition gradually from time division multiplexing (TDM) to packet-based synchronization. Instead of replacing all their older clock shelves, they deployed our OSA 5422 and OSA 3350 with optical cesium alongside their existing infrastructure.

The legacy system remains in service, while our Oscilloquartz solutions provide a state-of-the-art reference with enhanced precision, reliability and resilience against GNSS vulnerabilities. The deployment also supports compliance with stringent industry regulations and bolsters overall grid security.

Why this strategy makes sense

• Cuts costs and avoids downtime: Focusing on the “sync source” avoids major rewiring and keeps disruption to a minimum.
• Adds modern capabilities: New GNSS receivers support multiple constellations (including LEO), deliver robust holdover and enable IEEE 1588-based synchronization.
• Supports gradual migration: When networks are near retirement, full upgrades often aren’t justifiable. This approach delivers long-term value without waste.

A smooth transition to PTP-based services

Globally, Adtran Oscilloquartz solutions are already enabling the deployment of new 5G services and offering critical protection for defense and aerospace applications. They’re also advancing the frontiers of assured timing for metrology and enabling cutting-edge scientific research. What’s more, the same flexible technology can distribute precise timing across partially PTP-aware – and even PTP-unaware – networks, supporting a smooth, cost-effective transition to modern synchronization infrastructure.

For more on how our comprehensive timing and synchronization portfolio is enhancing networks worldwide – while extending the life of legacy clocks in data centers, power grids, telecoms and beyond – visit www.oscilloquartz.com.