Microchip Unifies Management of “Terrestrial Time” and “Live-Sky Time” Sources to Enable Resilient Timing for Critical Infrastructure

Rhea-AI Summary

Microchip Technology Inc. (Nasdaq: MCHP) has enhanced its TimePictra 11 timing infrastructure management system by integrating it with the BlueSky GNSS Firewall. This combination is designed to secure 5G networks from GPS signal jamming and spoofing while providing a unified view of timing architecture. The TimePictra system ensures precise timing distribution across critical infrastructures, including aviation and railway sectors. With the launch, Microchip aims to improve situational awareness and resilience for mobile operators transitioning to 5G.

Positive

• Integration of BlueSky GNSS Firewall enhances security for 5G networks.
• Improves situational awareness through real-time GPS threat detection.
• Supports various critical infrastructures including aviation and railway.

Negative

• None.

Company’s TimePictra 11 timing infrastructure management system works with its BlueSky™ GNSS Firewall to create a unified view for a more secure network timing architecture

CHANDLER, Ariz., June 22, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today’s 5G wireless infrastructure has more complex, higher-density synchronization needs than previous-generation networks and is highly dependent on the integrity of “live-sky” timing signals from the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). Microchip Technology Inc. (Nasdaq: MCHP) today announced it has integrated its BlueSky GNSS Firewall with its TimePictra 11 synchronization monitoring and management platform to protect 5G networks and other critical timing infrastructure from Global Positioning System (GPS) signal jamming and spoofing while providing single-console visibility across the entire timing architecture.

“Microchip’s TimePictra system improves overall situational awareness by managing network timing synchronization as well as our GNSS firewall that improves a network’s resilience through real-time GPS threat detection and mitigation,” said Randy Brudzinski, vice president, Frequency and Time Systems business unit. “Our solution’s scalability is particularly valuable for mobile operators who can use TimePictra to monitor GNSS based source clocks along with our secure network-based timing distribution solutions to deploy a highly 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 synchronization. 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 in combination with BlueSky GNSS Firewalls monitor key GNSS observables to detect live sky signal anomalies and deliver early alerting so that operators can engage 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.

Availability
Microchip’s TimePictra timing infrastructure management system with its Blue Sky GNSS Firewall is available today. More information about this integrated solution is on the Microchip’s website.

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About Microchip Technology
Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions. Its easy-to-use development tools and comprehensive product portfolio enable customers to create optimal designs which reduce risk while lowering total system cost and time to market. The company’s solutions serve more than 120,000 customers across the industrial, automotive, consumer, aerospace and defense, communications and computing markets. Headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, Microchip offers outstanding technical support along with dependable delivery and quality. For more information, visit the Microchip website at www.microchip.com.

Note: The Microchip name and logo, Microchip logo and TimePictra are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. and other countries. BlueSky is a trademark of Microchip Technology Inc. in the U.S.A. and other countries. All other trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective companies.

Editorial Contact:	Reader Inquiries:
Cathy Gedvilas	1-888-624-7435
480-792-4386
cathy.gedvilas@microchip.com

FAQ

What is the significance of Microchip's TimePictra 11 integration with BlueSky GNSS Firewall?

The integration enhances the security of 5G networks against GPS signal threats and provides a comprehensive view of network timing architecture.

How does TimePictra 11 help in 5G network transitions?

It offers scalable timing synchronization and monitoring solutions essential for mobile operators during their transition to 5G.

What industries can benefit from TimePictra 11?

Industries such as aviation, railway, and maritime ports can leverage TimePictra for improving GNSS signal reliability and safety.

Is TimePictra 11 available for use?

Yes, Microchip's TimePictra timing infrastructure management system is available now.