To protect 5G networks and other critical timing infrastructure from global positioning system (GPS) signal jamming and spoofing, Microchip has integrated its BlueSky GNSS Firewall with its TimePitra 11 synchronisation monitoring and management platform. In addition to synchronisation, the combination provides single-console visibility across the entire timing architecture.
5G wireless infrastructure has more complex, higher-density synchronisation needs than earlier networks and is highly dependent on the integrity of “live-sky” timing signals from the global navigation satellite system (GNSS), explains Microchip.
The company’s TimePictra system improves overall situational awareness by managing network timing synchronisation, explains the company. The GNSS firewall that improves a network’s resilience through real-time GPS threat detection and mitigation. The scalable solution can be used by mobile operators who can use TimePictra to monitor GNSS-based source clocks along with secure network-based timing distribution solutions to deploy a resilient timing architecture for their transition to 5G.
In addition to requiring precise timing from GNSS sources, critical infrastructure operators need accurate timing to be distributed across their networks so they can ensure reliable performance and service delivery. TimePictra provides full control and monitoring for resilient timing architectures created with Microchip’s broad product portfolio including its TimeProvider 4100 grandmasters for 5G network synchronisation. It also monitors the health and performance of these networks’ distributed Precision Time Protocol (PTP) client clocks. Integrating BlueSky GNSS Firewall management into the TimePictra console view now gives operators a unified picture of the entire timing architecture and all timing sources.
Beyond supporting 5G deployments, TimePictra enables aviation, railway and maritime ports with a regional, national or global view of GNSS reception. TimePictra combined with BlueSky GNSS firewalls monitor key GNSS observables to detect live sky signal anomalies and deliver early alerts. This allows operators to follow alternate procedures that do not rely on GNSS. These capabilities are increasingly important where public safety is dependent on the position and navigation for daily operations.
Microchip’s TimePictra timing infrastructure management system with its Blue Sky GNSS Firewall is available today.
