What are cesium clocks?
Cesium – the foundation of global timekeeping
Cesium clocks are devices that generate an exceptionally stable frequency, serving as the backbone of modern timekeeping. In fact, the internationally agreed definition of the second is based on cesium-133 atoms transitioning between two hyperfine energy states. It’s this unparalleled precision that makes cesium clocks an indispensable element of today’s global digital systems. From enabling GPS navigation and synchronizing global telecommunications to supporting utilities, financial networks and scientific research, cesium clocks ensure seamless operation in industries where even nanosecond discrepancies can have major impact. Recent advancements, such as optical cesium clocks, are further redefining what’s possible in timekeeping precision.
Defining the second with cesium clocks
Cesium’s stable atomic transitions are used to define the second in the International System of Units (SI), setting the gold standard for precise and reliable timekeeping.
The latest advances in cesium-based atomic clocks redefine what’s possible in time-sensitive applications, exceeding the most stringent international standards.
Precision timing for navigation and communication
Cesium clocks provide the precision and stability essential for seamless communication, accurate navigation and reliable synchronization in modern digital systems.
Cesium clocks push the limits of precision
Cesium clocks come in two families: magnetic deflection clocks, a legacy technology limited by oven temperature and atomic flux, and Oscilloquartz’s innovative optical pumping clocks. Optical pumping uses narrow-band lasers to excite cesium atoms into specific energy states, creating a higher flux of atoms that are easier to interrogate with microwaves. This process enhances stability, reduces energy loss and ensures long-term precision. Feedback loops continually optimize performance, making these clocks more reliable and efficient. As the only provider of this advanced technique, Oscilloquartz delivers unparalleled accuracy for the most demanding applications like 5G networks, metrology and high-frequency trading.
High-performance timing for critical applications
Advances in cesium clock technology, such as optical pumping, ensure unparalleled stability and consistent long-term performance, making them indispensable for metrology, space exploration and scientific research.
Oscilloquartz OSA 3300 SHP and OSA 3350 SePRC+ unmatched timing accuracy
Oscilloquartz’s super high-performance (SHP) cesium clocks represent the pinnacle of long-term stability and precision. By employing advanced optical pumping and straight atomic beams enabled by laser excitation, these clocks overcome the limitations of traditional magnetic deflection designs, achieving a 100-fold increase in atomic flux. This enhances reliability, simplifies alignment and reduces maintenance by placing key components, such as the laser system, outside the vacuum chamber. With a stability floor of 8×10⁻¹⁵ and the capability to maintain timing accurate to 100 nanoseconds of UTC for 100 days, Oscilloquartz’s SHP clocks deliver unparalleled performance. Two specialized variants within the SHP range address distinct needs: one excels in phase noise reduction for metrology, ground stations and defense, while the other provides robust stability and accuracy for ePRTC+ systems in telecom, data centers and GNSS backup. Together, they ensure precise, reliable timing for today’s critical applications while paving the way for future advancements in increasingly complex, time-sensitive systems.
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