5 Myths about Synchronized Clocks

Is your company hesitating to install a synchronous clock system? You may find yourself wondering what benefits come from a synchronized system and whether it’s worth the price. There may be many myths about synchronized clock systems and how they function, but Sapling hopes to alleviate them for you. Below are 5 common myths about clock systems that we hope, after explaining, will finally set the record straight and convey the true advantageous nature of a synchronized clock system from manufacturers like Sapling.

MYTH #1: Synchronized clocks are not necessary.

THE TRUTH:

Clock systems are more than just necessary for many industries. They are a key function in maintaining a timely manner in which many services are provided. Organizations without uniform time throughout their facilities find members struggling to meet deadlines, appointments and other events because individually managed clocks vary in displayed time from room to room and person to person. Without a synchronized clock system in place, an institution fails to run effectively on a day-to-day basis.

MYTH #2: Synchronized clock systems will commonly fail to synchronize.

THE TRUTH:

Unlike atomic or standalone clocks, clock systems allow for the continuous synchronization of time. Atomic clocks, for instance, fail to synchronize because they rely on a signal that comes from Colorado regardless of their location within the U.S. Between long distances and construction materials that may block signals, atomic clocks are known for their lack of continuous synchronization. Meanwhile, standalone clocks simply reflect the time that is set by the individual user and drift over time. Clock systems, however, synchronize through a wired connection or rely on a signal that comes from within the building, eliminating signal issues.

MYTH #3: Synchronized clock systems do not use accurate time sources.

THE TRUTH:

With the use of a Sapling Master Clock, a synchronized clock system relies on either a GPS receiver or an (S)NTP time server to receive time. Both GPS and (S)NTP are considered extremely accurate forms of time. Clocks do not run the risk of drifting because they will be continuously synchronized with the master clock’s accurate time source. Even with the use of our IP clocks, accurate time is still guaranteed through their individual connections to (S)NTP time servers.

MYTH #4: Synchronized clocks require too much maintenance.

THE TRUTH:

Standalone clocks must be individually monitored for malfunctions, drifting and power. Monitoring the clocks, making repairs and adjusting for events such as Daylight Saving is extremely time consuming for maintenance crews. With a synchronized clock system like Sapling’s, however, maintenance is minimal. Our web interface allows all clocks to be controlled from any one location with internet access. Furthermore, our new IP Clock Talkback Technology™ allows maintenance to be proactive by sending status emails if various malfunctions or display issues occur.

MYTH #5: Synchronized clocks systems are too expensive.

THE TRUTH:

A great advantage of Sapling’s is our flexibility with budgets. Our wired clocks can be retrofitted to work with other already installed systems, our IP clocks can run on existing network infrastructure, and our wireless clocks eliminate the need for new or pre-existing wiring altogether. We make it easy and affordable to choose a clock that will work best for your individual circumstances.

Now that you know the truth about how synchronized clock systems actually work, Sapling hopes to assist you to make the best decision for your facility. Our representatives would be glad to hear from you and answer any questions you may have. Please contact us directly for assistance. We’ll work in-sync with you to get your organization running on a reliable and accurate synchronized clock system.