TN-101

Sep-2017

TECHNICAL NOTE Sequence of Events Recording (SER)

System Design Guide

I 1588
SM

Modern power systems rely on precision timing. Sequence of Events Recording

Contents (SER) systems use 1-msec timestamp resolution to provide essential information
●● PTP (IEEE 1588) Introduction 2 about power system events. PTP (Precision Time Protocol defined in IEEE 1588) uses
hardware-assisted timestamping to achieve required accuracy over Ethernet, finally
●● SER Time sync Inputs/Outputs 3
making “high-definition” time sync simple and affordable. This document describes
●● 1—Time Source Options 4 simple, scalable system architectures using PTP with products from Cyber Sciences.
●● 2—Time Distribution (PTP) 7 In addition, various options are described for integrating devices using legacy time
●● 3—Synchronizing Non-PTP Devices 8 protocols.
●● Redundant Masters 12 Time Synchronization as Easy as 1-2-3
●● Scalability 13 Time synchronization requires a time source and a means to distribute this time
●● EPMS System Examples 14 reference to all devices. For precision time sync, devices don’t just “snap” to the new
●● Legacy System Architectures 22 time value at each update; they learn to “beat in rhythm” with the master clock,
maintaining precise synchronization at all times. CyTimeTM SER-3200/2408-PTP Event
●● Upgrading a Legacy Design to PTP 25
Recorders accept a variety of time-source options, and sync with each other auto-
●● Extending Existing Time Sync 29 matically over Ethernet, using PTP. In addition, an SER can serve as a “time sync hub”
●● Technical Reference 31 for devices that do not yet support PTP.
Simple, building-block options are shown below, and more technical details are
presented in the rest of this document.

TIME SYNCHRONIZATION DESIGN

1TIME
SOURCE GPS
clock NTP
EPMS
server
2TIME
SOURCE GPS
clock NTP
EPMS
server
3TIME
SOURCE GPS
clock NTP
EPMS
server

Ethernet Ethernet Ethernet

PTP PTP PTP

MASTER MASTER MASTER
CLOCK CLOCK CLOCK

SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP

(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)

PTP PTP PTP

EPMS EPMS EPMS
device device device
IRIG-B or
(up to 200 PTP slaves) (up to 200 PTP slaves) (up to 200 PTP slaves) DCF77 or
PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP 1per10 or
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) ASCII
SLAVES SLAVES SLAVES

Choose a Time Source Sync all SERs with Each Other (PTP) Sync Other EPMS Devices
Set the first SER’s time from a web browser, Configure the first SER to output PTP (PTP Sync SERs with other EPMS devices using PTP
EPMS software or NTP server. Optionally, add grandmaster clock); all other SERs on the over Ethernet, all within 100 µsec. No PTP? No
a GPS antenna/receiver to provide an external same Ethernet network sync with each other problem! For devices that do not yet support
time reference traceable to UTC (Coordinated automatically (within 100 µsec). No special PTP, a CyTime SER (PTP slave) can serve as a
Universal Time), to compare data from other Ethernet switches. No additional setup. “time-sync hub” to output the legacy protocol
sites or organizations (e.g., electric utilities). Simple, affordable, scalable. needed (IRIG-B, DCF77, ASCII, or 1per10).

Precision Timing for Reliable Power. Simplified.SM

TN-101 | Sep-2017 TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide

PRECISION TIME PROTOCOL (PTP) Precision Time Protocol (PTP) per IEEE 1588
per IEEE 1588 IEEE 1588TM defines the Precision Time Protocol (PTP) with a goal of achieving very
high precision for time-synchronization over a packet-based network such as Ether-
net. PTP takes advantage of special Ethernet hardware for precise time-stamping of
PTP the Ethernet frame send and receive time and prescribes a very precise mechanism
MASTER
to correct for delays introduced in the network path from the master clock (time
reference), through multiple levels of switches, to the slave clocks (time consumers).
Switch
The Power Profile—Not for Everyone
Switch Network delay
correction A second IEEE standard (IEEE C37.238) proposes a unique subset of attributes and
Ethernet settings (“Power Profile”) optimized for certain power system applications. However,
Switch the name is unfortunate, because it is mainly intended for applications that require
1-µsec accuracy, such as synchrophasors for electric utility substation automation.
By contrast, in commercial/industrial power applications, where 100-µsec accuracy
PHY is sufficient to achieve meaningful 1-msec timestamp resolution, the Power Profile’s
1588 strict rules add unnecessary cost, making it unsuitable.
PTP PTP
SLAVE (direct link) hardware- The Simple PTP Profile—Based on IEEE 1588 Default Profile
assisted
O/S time-stamp The Power Profile requires all Ethernet switches to be 1588-compliant to serve as
Application 1588 “transparent clocks” and adjust PTP packets “on the fly.” This is required to achieve
1-µsec accuracy but unnecessary for less-demanding applications such as Sequence
of Events Recording (SER). For these, Cyber Sciences proposes the “Simple PTP”
PTP uses 1588 hardware-assisted time-stamping in the (SPTP) Profile, based on the IEEE 1588 Default Profile. This “Goldilocks solution” is
Ethernet physical layer (PHY) for high precision just right for commercial/industrial EPMS, ensuring the required accuracy without
imposing unnecessary restrictions or changes to the Ethernet data network. With
SPTP, no special 1588 Ethernet switches are required.

For More Info:

Tech Note: Hi-res Time Sync using PTP/1588 (TN-100)

I 1588
SM

IEEE 1588 (All Profiles) “Simple PTP” Profile (SPTP) * Power Profile (C37.238)

GENERAL SIMPLE STRICT

Target accuracy: nanoseconds Target accuracy: 100 µs Target accuracy: 1 µs

All clock types Master and Slave-only All clock types except boundary

Unicast or Multicast Multicast Multicast

802.3 (layer 2), UDP/IPv4, UDP/IPv6 UDP/IPv4 802.3 only (layer 2)

PTP-compliant switches No special switches required PTP-compliant switches required

End-to-end or Peer-to-peer End-to-end (E2E) only Peer-to-peer (P2P) only

1-step or 2-step 2-step 1-step or 2-step

Variable delay requests 32 seconds Variable delay requests (typically 1 second)

Does not address max no. of slaves Designed to support 200+ PTP slaves Does not address max no. of slaves (< 40?)

* Simple PTP (SPTP) is based on the PTP Delay Request-Response Default PTP profile (also called End-to-End), defined in IEEE 1588-2008, Annex J.

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TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide TN-101 | Sep-2017

CyTime SER TIME-SYNC OPTIONS CyTime SER-3200-PTP (or SER-2408-PTP)

(INPUTS AND OUTPUTS) CyTime SER-3200/2408 Event Recorders are the first Cyber Sciences products to
support PTP. For both models, PTP functionality is enabled through a license key
(hardware versions B1 and later). The PTP license enables both PTP master and PTP
slave functionality in the SER. User setup determines whether the device functions
as a PTP master or PTP slave (or neither, and is simply installed for future use).
In addition to PTP, SER-3200/2408 Event Recorders support several time-sync input
and output options for flexibility and interoperability with other devices.

SER-3200/2408 Time Source Options Time source options via PTP, NTP or Modbus TCP use the SER-3200/2408 built-in
Ethernet interface (RJ-45). IRIG-B or DCF77 inputs require an adapter (EZC-IRIG-B or
(Time-Sync IN) EZC-DCF77) as shown.

IRIG-B DCF77

PTP or NTP or
Modbus TCP OR OR
(over Ethernet)

EZC-IRIG-B EZC-DCF77

Ethernet

SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)

SER-3200/2408-PTP as Time-sync Hub When PTP is selected as time source, the SER-3200/2408 also serves as a “PTP time-
(Time-Sync Outputs) sync hub” for non-PTP devices, generating the time-sync protocol needed: IRIG-B,
DCF77, 1per10 (via PLX adapter) or ASCII (via built-in RS-485 port), as shown below.

Note: Only one protocol can be selected for output IRIG-B (5V DCLS)
via the PLX connector (IRIG-B, DCF77 or 1per10).
However, for maximum flexibility, the ASCII / RS-485 PLX-5V
output is enabled by default any time an SER is set to
use PTP for time source (IN) or time-sync (OUT). OR
IRIG-B (24V, to STR-IDM)
PTP OR
DCF77 (24V)
OR
1per10 (24V)
PLX-24V
Ethernet

SER-3200-PTP ASCII (RS-485)

(or SER-2408-PTP)

© 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. www.cyber-sciences.com 3

TN-101 | Sep-2017 TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide

TIME SOURCE OPTIONS CyTime SER-3200/2408 Event Recorders support several options for setting the time
or synchronizing to an external time source. Time source options over Ethernet (PTP,

1
NTP or Modbus TCP) use the built-in Ethernet interface.
The simplest approach is to set the SER date/time manually via its web interface
(Setup-Time web page). This is acceptable if only one SER is needed, or for tempo-
rary use during commissioning or tests.
TIME EPMS
SOURCE GPS
clock NTP
server
Another simple method is to set the date/time over the Ethernet network by the
Ethernet EPMS (or other supervisory) server, using the SER’s Modbus TCP command interface.
PTP
MASTER
Note that the EPMS server clock and SER clock may differ by as much as one second
CLOCK with this approach; however, as long as all other SERs (and EPMS devices with
1-msec timestamp resolution) are synchronized more precisely with each other, this
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) may be acceptable.
PTP
EPMS
device
(up to 200 PTP slaves)
PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP TIME EPMS
SLAVES
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
SOURCE server

EPMS server sets

first SER via
Modbus TCP
Modbus TCP
PTP
MASTER MENU ENTER
Ethernet
CLOCK
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)

EPMS server sets date/time over Ethernet network, using Modbus TCP
PTP
SLAVES
(up to 200 PTP slaves)

Time Source: Network Time Server The most widely used method for time synchronization of computers, at least in the
(NTP) past, is to deploy one or more network time servers (NTP servers) on the Ethernet
network. Devices must be configured with one or more NTP server IP addresses, and
then periodically request the date and time. Depending on network design and the
degree of sophistication in the client device’s NTP (or SNTP) algorithm and software
design, accuracies of 10-100 msec are possible. There are no objective test standards
to guide manufacturers of power system devices, and so specified accuracies—and
real-world performance—vary greatly.
For this reason, Cyber Sciences recommends setting the first SER only to sync to an
NTP server; set this SER, in turn, to serve as PTP grandmaster to sync all other SERs
(and other PTP-compatible devices) over the network using PTP (Precision Time
Protocol). Devices which do not support PTP may use NTP or (if possible) use one of
the higher-precision, legacy protocols described later in this document.

GPS
Antenna
TIME (optional)
EPMS
SOURCE NTP Server Coax cable
server
(by others) NTP

IRIG-B

PTP
MASTER MENU ENTER
Ethernet
CLOCK NTP

SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)

Time source: NTP server(s) located somewhere on the network (GPS antenna optional)
PTP
SLAVES

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TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide TN-101 | Sep-2017

Time Source: GPS Clock (IRIG-B) In the next example shown below, the first SER accepts a precision time sync signal
(IRIG-B) from a GPS receiver/clock as its time source. The GPS clock also provides

1
NTP time-sync for the EPMS server. This method provides greater accuracy than the
previous example using NTP alone, and it also ensures a time reference traceable
to a known standard reference, UTC (Coordinated Universal Time). This is useful for
comparison with external data, such as outage details provided by the electric utility.
TIME
SOURCE GPS
EPMS
server
Important: The third-party GPS receiver/clock must output IRIG-B type DCLS, with
clock NTP
the year included (codes B004-B007). Sometimes including the year is called “en-
Ethernet
abling IEEE 1344 extensions” referring to an older standard.
PTP
MASTER
CLOCK

GPS
SER-3200-PTP Antenna
(or SER-2408-PTP)
TIME Coax cable EPMS
PTP SOURCE GPS Clock server
EPMS (by others) NTP
device
(up to 200 PTP slaves)
PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP IRIG-B
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
SLAVES

EZC-IRIG-B
PTP
MASTER MENU ENTER
Ethernet
CLOCK
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)

Time source: GPS receiver/clock (via IRIG-B protocol)

PTP
SLAVES
(up to 200 PTP slaves)

Time Source: STR-100 (DCF77) In the next example, the first SER accepts DCF77 as its time source input, from an
STR-100 Satellite Time Reference by Cyber Sciences. The STR-100 is designed with
industrial-grade specs, and so it can be installed in the same power equipment
enclosure as the devices to be synchronized. The STR-100 uses an input signal from
a Trimble Acutime 360 smart antenna (as shown), or a modulated IRIG-B signal from
a GPS clock, if desired. In addition to its DCF77 output, the STR-100 can also be con-
figured to generate “1per10” protocol (one pulse per 10 seconds), used by Sepam
20/40/80 protective relays by Schneider Electric.

Acutime 360
Antenna
TIME EPMS
SOURCE server
STR-100
Satellite Time Reference
DCF OUT GPS INTERFACE
PWR DCF
SYNC CH 1
STAT CH 2

DCF77

EZC-DCF77
PTP
MASTER MENU ENTER
Ethernet
CLOCK
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)

Time source: STR-100 (via DCF77 protocol)

PTP
SLAVES
(up to 200 PTP slaves)

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TN-101 | Sep-2017 TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide

Time Source = GPS Clock (PTP) Third-party Clocks as PTP Grandmaster

For small systems (up to 10 PTP slaves), it may be possible to use a third-party GPS

1
clock as PTP master instead of a CyTime SER. The GPS clock must be configured to
use PTP options and settings compatible with the Simple PTP Profile (SPTP) used
by the SERs. Normally, selecting the 1588 Default Profile is sufficient. In addition, it
may be necessary to increase the grandmaster’s Delay Request Interval. Consult the
TIME EPMS GPS clock manufacturer for specifications on the maximum number of PTP slaves it
SOURCE GPS server
clock NTP can support, as well as recommended adjustments to any other settings. In general,
Ethernet
Cyber Sciences recommends using SERs as both PTP master and slave.
PTP

Warning about Some Third-party PTP Masters

MASTER
CLOCK

Cyber Sciences has tested its CyTime SERs (PTP slaves) with several third-party clocks
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) as PTP masters with good results. However, some third-party clocks did not perform
PTP
EPMS
well when scaled up to systems with a large number of PTP slaves. Unfortunately,
device the current IEEE 1588 standard does not specify the number of PTP slaves that a
(up to 200 PTP slaves)
PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)
given PTP grandmaster must support. For this reason, Cyber Sciences recommends
SLAVES
against using third-party PTP masters unless specific testing has been done.

GPS
Antenna
TIME Coax cable
EPMS
SOURCE server

GPS

GPS Clock
(by others)
PTP
MASTER Ethernet
CLOCK PTP NTP

PTP
SLAVES PTP MENU ENTER MENU ENTER MENU ENTER

(max no. of PTP slaves

depends on clock specs)
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)

A third-party GPS receiver/clock serves as PTP master for all SERs (and other EPMS devices that support PTP)

IEEE 1588 Interoperability:

Cyber Sciences is a member of the InterOperability
Laboratory of the University of New Hampshire,
which is dedicated to ensuring interoperability of a
wide range of technologies, including IEEE 1588.

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TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide TN-101 | Sep-2017

TIME DISTRIBUTION (PTP) Time-sync SERs with Each Other

Regardless of time source, all CyTime SER-3200/2408-PTP Event Recorders sync with

2
each other over Ethernet within 100 µsec using PTP. As shown below, configure
the first SER as PTP master (grandmaster); all other SERs sync automatically using
PTP over the Ethernet network. There is no need for additional setup. Unlike NTP, in
which each NTP client must be configured with one or more NTP server IP addresses,
TIME EPMS PTP slaves automatically sync to the PTP grandmaster.
SOURCE GPS server
clock NTP

Ethernet
CyTime SERs do have a user-configurable setting for “PTP Domain;” however, this is
PTP
normally left at its default value of zero, unless multiple PTP sub-systems are desired
MASTER
CLOCK for very large systems. (See later section on scalability.)

SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)

PTP
EPMS
device
(up to 200 PTP slaves)
PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
SLAVES

GPS
Antenna
TIME Coax cable EPMS
SOURCE GPS Clock server
(by others) NTP

IRIG-B

EZC-IRIG-B
PTP
MASTER MENU ENTER
Ethernet
CLOCK
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)

PTP
SLAVES PTP MENU ENTER MENU ENTER MENU ENTER

(up to 200 PTP slaves)

SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)

Sync the first CyTime SER (in this example, using IRIG-B), and all other SERs sync automatically using PTP

© 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. www.cyber-sciences.com 7

TN-101 | Sep-2017 TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide

SYNCHRONIZING NON-PTP DEVICES Sync all EPMS Devices via PTP

Extend time synchronization to other EPMS devices (relays, meters, PLCs, etc.) by

3
setting these to use the IEEE 1588 PTP Default Profile (End to End). PTP-compatible
Other Devices devices will sync automatically to the first CyTime SER serving as PTP grandmaster.
No need to specify IP address of the PTP master—PTP systems are self-organizing.

No PTP? No Problem
TIME EPMS
SOURCE GPS
clock NTP
server
Need precision sync to devices that don’t support PTP? No problem. The type of
Ethernet device to be synchronized usually dictates the choice of time-sync protocol, since
PTP
MASTER
supported protocols vary by manufacturer and type. Fortunately, CyTime SERs offer
CLOCK
ways to integrate these devices by accepting PTP to sync its clock to that of the PTP
master, then output date/time using the legacy protocol(s) required, effectively
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) making them “PTP-enabled,” too. Some factory wiring is needed, but the cost and
PTP
EPMS
complexity of field wiring between lineups is eliminated.
device
(up to 200 PTP slaves)
IRIG-B or
DCF77 or
1per10 or
The supported legacy protocols for time-sync output by a CyTime SER are:
PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP

●● IRIG-B (Unmodulated)
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) ASCII
SLAVES

●● DCF77
●● 1per10
●● ASCII serial time code (over RS-485)

GPS
Antenna
TIME Coax cable EPMS
SOURCE GPS Clock server
(by others) NTP

IRIG-B

EZC-IRIG-B
PTP
MASTER MENU ENTER
Ethernet
CLOCK
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)
IRIG-B or
DCF77 or
1per10
PTP
EPMS
SLAVES PTP MENU ENTER MENU ENTER MENU ENTER
device
(up to 200 PTP slaves)
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) ASCII / RS-485

The first CyTime SER serves as PTP master and sync all other SERs (PTP slaves); each PTP slave then outputs the legacy protocol needed to sync one or
more EPMS devices, making them effectively “PTP-enabled”

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TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide TN-101 | Sep-2017

SYNCHRONIZING NON-PTP DEVICES The IRIG time codes were originally developed by the US military and are widely
(via IRIG-B) used by electric utilities for time synchronization. The IRIG-B time code consists of

3
100 pulses per second and transmits a complete date/time every second, although

IRIG-B the year may or may not be included.

The two most common variations used in power system applications:
●● Unmodulated IRIG-B, DC Level Shift (DCLS)
TIME EPMS
SOURCE GPS
clock NTP
server
●● Modulated IRIG-B (1kHz carrier)
Ethernet
The IRIG 200-04 standard does not define specific signal levels, but both IRIG-B types
PTP
MASTER
CLOCK
are typically distributed at TTL levels (5 Vdc) via point-to-point wiring, either via
coaxial or shielded, twisted-pair cable. This may be suitable for a small number of de-
SER-3200-PTP vices over short distances. To synchronize a larger number of devices, a daisy-chain
topology is often preferred, using twisted-pair cabling rather than coax. However, at
(or SER-2408-PTP)

PTP
EPMS 5 Vdc, distances and number of devices are limited.
device
IRIG-B or
(up to 200 PTP slaves)
For more information on IRIG-B, see Tech Note: IRIG-B Time Codes (TN-102)
DCF77 or
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP 1per10 or
PTP ASCII
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
SLAVES

Time-sync Output: Unmodulated IRIG-B (< 8 devices)

A CyTime SER (with PTP enabled) can be configured to output the most common
form of IRIG-B: unmodulated, or DC Level Shift (DCLS) at 5 Vdc nominal. A PTP Leg-
acy Interface (PLX-5V) connected to the SER DB-15 port outputs the signal at 5 Vdc
nominal. This IRIG-B time code supports the full date/time, including the year (IRIG
code “B006”), and is compatible with most meters and relays that support IRIG-B.

Daisy-chain wiring, Belden 8760 cable or

Ethernet LAN
equivalent, 1000 ft (300m) max total length.
PLX-5V IRIG-B
PTP IRIG-B termination (if needed)

PTP SLAVE
(Time source = PTP)
(Time-sync out = IRIG-B) MENU ENTER

IRIG-B ... IRIG-B

Devices that support IRIG-B include:
—Most overcurrent protective relays
up to 7 —PM8000 meters (Schneider Electric)
SER-3200-PTP devices —9410 meters (Siemens)
(or SER-2408-PTP)

Time-sync Output: Unmodulated IRIG-B (8 or more devices)

For reliable distribution over longer distances or to a greater number of devices, this
same IRIG-B code can be output at 24 Vdc using a PLX-24V accessory instead. This
signal is then distributed (with 24 Vdc control power) via a multi-point connection
to “IRIG-B Distribution Modules” (IDM) which in turn convert the signal back to the
expected 5 Vdc for point-to-point connection to up to eight (8) IRIG-B devices.

Daisy-chain wiring, Belden 8770 cable or

equivalent, 2000 ft (600m) max total length.
IRIG-B (24V DCLS) + 24Vdc power
To next STR-IDM (4 total)
STR-IDM 1 to 4 STR-IDM STR-IDM
STR-IDM
modules per PLX STR-IDM

Ethernet LAN

PLX-24V IRIG-B (5V DCLS) IRIG-B (5V DCLS)

PTP

PTP SLAVE
(Time source = PTP)
(Time-sync out = IRIG-B) MENU ENTER

IRIG-B ... IRIG-B IRIG-B ... IRIG-B

up to 8 up to 8
devices devices
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)

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TN-101 | Sep-2017 TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide

SYNCHRONIZING NON-PTP DEVICES Time-sync Output: DCF77

(via DCF77) DCF77 is a time protocol similar to IRIG-B with equivalent accuracy but distributed at

3
24 Vdc via multi-point wiring. DCF77 has one pulse per second (1 PPS) and transmits
DCF77 a complete date/time every minute, including the year.
A CyTime SER (with PTP enabled) can be configured to output the standard DCF77
signal (24 Vdc) via a PTP Legacy Interface (PLX-24V). Generally, the choice to support
TIME
SOURCE GPS
EPMS
server DCF77 is dictated by the device(s) that require this method for time sync. This proto-
clock NTP

Ethernet
col is most commonly used by PowerLogicTM CM4000 series meters from Schneider
PTP
Electric and Power XpertTM PXM 4000/6000/8000 meters from Eaton.
MASTER
CLOCK
For more information on DCF77, see Tech Note: DCF77 Time Protocol (TN-103)
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)

PTP
EPMS
device
IRIG-B or
(up to 200 PTP slaves) DCF77 or
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP 1per10 or
PTP ASCII
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
SLAVES

Daisy-chain wiring, Belden 8760 cable or

Ethernet LAN
equivalent, 2000 ft (600m) max total length.
PLX-24V DCF77
PTP DCF77 termination (if needed)

PTP SLAVE
(Time source = PTP)
(Time-sync out = DCF77) MENU ENTER

DCF77 ... DCF77

Devices that support DCF77 include:
—CM4000T meters (Schneider Electric)
up to 16 —PowerXpert 4000/6000/8000 meters
SER-3200-PTP devices (Eaton)
(or SER-2408-PTP)

SYNCHRONIZING NON-PTP DEVICES Time-sync Output: 1per10

(via 1per10) Another protocol supported by CyTime SERs is called 1per10 (one pulse every 10

3
seconds). This method requires that the device clock first be set to the approximate
1per10 date/time (within 4 seconds of the correct time). Thereafter, the sync pulse is simply
used to adjust the device clock precisely and maintain synchronization to a master.
The PTP Legacy Interface PLX-24V is also used to output 1per10 (at 24 Vdc). The
TIME EPMS
SOURCE GPS
NTP
server 1per10 output is set via the SER-3200/2408-PTP Time Setup web page. 1per10 is
clock

Ethernet
used by Sepam 20/40/80 protective relays from Schneider Electric.
PTP
MASTER For more information on 1per10 protocol and its application with Sepam relays, see
CLOCK
Tech Note: 1per10 Time Protocol (TN-104).
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)

PTP
EPMS
device
IRIG-B or
(up to 200 PTP slaves) DCF77 or
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP 1per10 or
PTP ASCII
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
SLAVES

Daisy-chain wiring, Belden 8760 cable or

Ethernet LAN
equivalent, 2000 ft (600m) max total length.
PLX-24V 1per10
PTP

PTP SLAVE
(Time source = PTP)
(Time-sync out = 1per10) MENU ENTER

1per10 ... 1per10

Devices that support 1per10 include:
—Sepam 20/40/80 protective relays
up to 16 (Schneider Electric)
SER-3200-PTP devices
(or SER-2408-PTP)

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TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide TN-101 | Sep-2017

SYNCHRONIZING NON-PTP DEVICES Time-sync Output (ASCII / RS-485)

3
(via ASCII/RS-485) The CyTime SER-3200/2408 (all models) has a built-in RS-485 communications port
that can be used to output the ASCII serial code required by some power meters,
ASCII such as PM8000 and ION 7550/7650 meters from Schneider Electric and 9410 and
9510/9610 meters from Siemens.
TIME EPMS These meters use a proprietary ASCII protocol (“ASCII + Quality”) originally defined
SOURCE GPS server
clock NTP
by Arbiter systems, and is typically distributed over a 2-wire RS-485 network at 9600
Ethernet
bps. The SER is configured to accept PTP as its time source and enabled as time-sync
PTP
MASTER master, to generate ASCII RS-485 output to one or more devices. In most cases, one
CLOCK
SER will sync one meter, making it easier to treat the two as one logical device. If
desired, up to 16 devices can be synchronized over RS-485 from a single SER.
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)

PTP
For greater flexibility, a CyTime SER configured as PTP master (outputs PTP to other
EPMS
device
devices) also outputs ASCII/RS-485 by default. (See note below.)
IRIG-B or
(up to 200 PTP slaves) DCF77 or
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP 1per10 or
PTP ASCII
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
SLAVES

Ethernet LAN Daisy-chain wiring, Belden 9841 cable or

equivalent, 4000 ft (1200m) max total length.
PTP

PTP SLAVE
(Time source = PTP)
(Time-sync out = ASCII) MENU ENTER

ASCII ... ASCII

Devices that support ASCII/RS485:
1 to 16 —PM8000, ION7550, ION7650 meters
RS-485
devices (Schneider Electric)
SER-3200-PTP termination
—9410, 9510, 9610 meters (Siemens)
(or SER-2408-PTP)

SYNCHRONIZING NON-PTP DEVICES Time-sync Output (ASCII / RS-485) + IRIG-B

(ASCII hybrid systems) Because the RS-485 comm port is built into the SER-3200/2408-PTP models, it is
possible to output both ASCII/RS-485 and another protocol (e.g., IRIG-B) out its top
DB-15 connector using a PLX interface.
Note: Only one protocol can be selected for output via the PLX connector (IRIG-B,
Note: Only one protocol can be selected for output
DCF77 or 1per10). However, for maximum flexibility, the ASCII / RS-485 output is
via the PLX connector (IRIG-B, DCF77 or 1per10).
enabled by default any time an SER is configured with time source = PTP. Thus, an
However, for maximum flexibility, the ASCII / RS-485
SER can output one of these protocols (via the PLX connector) and output the ASCII/
output is enabled by default any time an SER is set to
RS-485 signal as well, without additional configuration for the ASCII output.
use PTP for time source (IN) or time-sync (OUT).
The example shown below illustrates such a case, with conventional (5V) IRIG-B
signal via PLX-5V and ASCII via the RS-485 time-sync output connection.

Daisy-chain wiring, Belden 8760 cable or

Ethernet LAN
equivalent, 1000 ft (300m) max total length.
PLX-5V IRIG-B
PTP

PTP SLAVE
(Time source = PTP)
(Time-sync out = IRIG-B MENU ENTER

IRIG-B ... IRIG-B

and ASCII/RS-485) up to 7
devices
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)

Daisy-chain wiring, Belden 9841 cable or

equivalent, 4000 ft (1200m) max total length.

ASCII ... ASCII

1 to 16 RS-485
devices termination

© 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. www.cyber-sciences.com 11

TN-101 | Sep-2017 TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide

REDUNDANT TIME MASTERS GPS Clock as Time Source (IRIG-B) PLUS Backup PTP Master
(IRIG-B input to master plus standby) As stated previously, PTP clocks are self-organizing, in that they establish a hierarchy
of interconnections based on messages exchanged. Slaves automatically sync to the
master (grandmaster). A second, redundant (optional) grandmaster-capable clock
can stand by in passive mode and function as grandmaster if the first is unavailable.
In the example below, the first two SERs accept IRIG-B as time source (from a third-
party clock); the first SER serves as PTP master (grandmaster) and the second SER
remains in passive (standby) mode.
In addition to providing a backup to the primary PTP master to increase system
reliability, this architecture also provides a built-in path for scalability in case it is
needed in future expansions. This is explained in the next section.

GPS
Antenna
TIME Coax cable EPMS
SOURCE GPS Clock server
(by others) NTP

IRIG-B

EZC-IRIG-B EZC-IRIG-B
IRIG-B
PTP PTP MASTER
MASTER MENU ENTER
Ethernet MENU ENTER
(STANDBY)
CLOCK
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
IRIG-B or
DCF77 or
1per10
PTP
EPMS
SLAVES PTP MENU ENTER MENU ENTER MENU ENTER
device
(up to 200 PTP slaves)
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) ASCII / RS-485

PTP time sync system: two SERs accept IRIG-B time sync (from third-party clock), one serves as PTP master for all other SERs; the other is standby master

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TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide TN-101 | Sep-2017

SCALABILITY PTP Scalability

CyTime Event Recorders have been tested under real-world network conditions and
are proven to maintain hi-resolution time in large systems with over two hundred
devices. Much larger systems are expected to function satisfactorily, but if extreme
network conditions prove otherwise, there is a simple solution. Instead of bring-
ing IRIG-B or DCF77 to just one SER serving as a single grandmaster, the same time
signal can be connected to a second SER to serve as a second grandmaster, using
a different domain number. Half of the slave devices would simply be set to this
second domain number, resulting in two logical PTP systems, independent of each
other. In this way, PTP is scalable for virtually any size project, and greatly simplifies
building out a system in phases.
Note that the drawing below which illustrates scaling up a PTP time-sync system is
nearly identical to the previous example with a redundant SER as backup PTP grand-
master. The physical connections are the same; the system is simply reconfigured to
use multiple PTP domains (settings change only).

GPS
Antenna
TIME Coax cable EPMS
SOURCE GPS Clock server
(by others) NTP

IRIG-B

EZC-IRIG-B EZC-IRIG-B
IRIG-B
PTP PTP
MASTER MASTER
CLOCK
MENU ENTER
Ethernet MENU ENTER

CLOCK
(domain 0) (domain 1)
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)

IRIG-B or
DCF77 or
PTP 1per10
EPMS
SLAVES
PTP device
(domain 0)
MENU ENTER MENU ENTER MENU ENTER

(up to 200 PTP slaves)

SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) ASCII / RS-485

IRIG-B or
DCF77 or
PTP 1per10
SLAVES EPMS
(domain 1) PTP MENU ENTER MENU ENTER MENU ENTER
device
(up to 200 PTP slaves)
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) ASCII / RS-485

PTP time sync system: two SERs accept IRIG-B time sync (from third-party clock), one serves as PTP master for SERs on PTP domain 0; the second serves as
PTP master for SERs on PTP domain 1. This allows the system to scale up easily as additional devices (PTP slaves) are added.

© 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. www.cyber-sciences.com 13

TN-101 | Sep-2017 TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE 1 The first EPMS system architecture example is illustrated below.
(Set first SER via Modbus TCP) Time Source. The first CyTime SER-3200 (or SER-2408) is set over the Ethernet
network by the EPMS (or other supervisory) server, using the SER’s Modbus TCP com-
mand interface. The EPMS server and first SER clock may differ by up to one second;
however, all other devices are synchronized more precisely with each other.
Time Distribution. The first SER serves as PTP grandmaster for all other CyTime SERs
(PTP slaves), synchronized within 100 µsec of each other.
Time Conversion. If other EPMS devices do not yet support PTP, then a nearby SER
can also be used as a “time-sync hub” to output the legacy protocol needed. For
illustration purposes, protective relays and meters are shown which require different
time protocols, along with a nearby SER which outputs the protocol needed:
●● MV (medium voltage) switchgear: relays use IRIG-B and meters use ASCII/RS-485.
●● Generator switchgear: relays use IRIG-B and meters use ASCII/RS-485.
●● LV (low voltage) switchgear or switchboards: meters shown use IRIG-B.
●● PDP (power distribution panel): meters shown use DCF77.
●● UPS cabinets: meters shown use ASCII/RS-485.

= IRIG-B (5V DCLS)

= DCF77 (24V DCLS)
EPMS WEB
SOFTWARE BROWSER = 1per10 (24V DCLS)
= ASCII / RS-485
Ethernet

IRIG-B Modbus TCP IRIG-B

PLX-5V PLX-5V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Relay Relay Relay Relay Master Slave Relay Relay Slave
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
SER-3200-PTP (or SER-2408-PTP) SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)

PTP
Slave Meter Meter Meter Meter
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485 ASCII / RS-485
MV SWGR GEN SWGR

IRIG-B IRIG-B DCF77

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD 1 PDP 1 UPS 1

IRIG-B IRIG-B DCF77

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD n PDP n UPS n

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE 1—High-def time-sync over Ethernet using PTP, first SER is set by an EPMS server using Modbus TCP

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TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide TN-101 | Sep-2017

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE 2 A second PTP-enabled system example is illustrated below.

(Sync first SER to NTP server) Time Source. The first CyTime SER-3200 (or SER-2408) syncs to an NTP server located
somewhere on the same Ethernet network.
Time Distribution. As in the previous example, the first SER then serves as PTP
grandmaster for all other CyTime SERs (PTP slaves), synchronized to 100 µsec.
Time Conversion. Again, for illustration purposes, protective relays and meters are
shown which require different time protocols. A nearby SER serves as a “PTP time-
sync hub” to output the legacy protocol needed.
Note: if EPMS devices all support the same protocol (e.g., IRIG-B), then the method
shown for IRIG-B devices in one type of equipment would also be used in the other
equipment types. The combinations shown below are chosen to illustrate many
alternatives, not to imply that a typical system includes all possible protocols.

= IRIG-B (5V DCLS)

GPS
Antenna = DCF77 (24V DCLS)
EPMS WEB
(optional) = 1per10 (24V DCLS)
SOFTWARE BROWSER
= ASCII / RS-485
Ethernet
NTP
Server

PANEL

IRIG-B IRIG-B
NTP
PLX-5V PLX-5V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Relay Relay Relay Relay Master Slave Relay Relay Slave
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
SER-3200-PTP (or SER-2408-PTP) SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)

PTP
Slave Meter Meter Meter Meter
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485 ASCII / RS-485
MV SWGR GEN SWGR

IRIG-B IRIG-B DCF77

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD 1 PDP 1 UPS 1

IRIG-B IRIG-B DCF77

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD n PDP n UPS n

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE 2—High-def time-sync over Ethernet using PTP, first SER syncs to a network time server (NTP), GPS optional

© 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. www.cyber-sciences.com 15

TN-101 | Sep-2017 TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE 3 System example 3 is a variation of the previous example.

(NTP server, first SER in same panel) Time Source. Again, the first CyTime SER is synchronized to an NTP server, but this
time this first SER is located in the same panel as the NTP server (or another EPMS
control panel, but not in the first power equipment enclosure).
Time Distribution and Conversion. All other details are the same: all SERs are syn-
chronized with each other automatically over Ethernet using PTP, and various SERs
also serve as local time-sync hubs for devices that do not yet support PTP directly.

= IRIG-B (5V DCLS)

GPS
Antenna = DCF77 (24V DCLS)
EPMS WEB
(optional) = 1per10 (24V DCLS)
SOFTWARE BROWSER
= ASCII / RS-485
NTP Ethernet
NTP
PTP
Server
Master
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)
PANEL

IRIG-B IRIG-B
PLX-5V PLX-5V
PTP PTP PTP
Slave Relay Relay Relay Relay Slave Relay Relay Slave

SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP

(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)

PTP
Slave Meter Meter Meter Meter
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485 ASCII / RS-485
MV SWGR GEN SWGR

IRIG-B IRIG-B DCF77

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD 1 PDP 1 UPS 1

IRIG-B IRIG-B DCF77

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD n PDP n UPS n

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE 3—High-def time-sync over Ethernet using PTP; first SER is in same panel as NTP server

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TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide TN-101 | Sep-2017

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE 4 System example 4 is identical to example 3, except:

(IRIG-B, first SER in same panel) Time Source. The first CyTime SER (located in the same panel as the GPS clock) gets
its time source from the clock via IRIG-B, not NTP. This improves the relative accuracy
to the UTC time reference, as compared with using NTP as its time source.
Time Distribution and Conversion. The remainder of the example is unchanged
from example 4. The protective relays are assumed to support IRIG-B, and so a PTP
slave SER device outputs this signal to the relays. Likewise, all the other relays and
meters are shown using the time-sync protocols they support.

= IRIG-B (5V DCLS)

GPS
Antenna = DCF77 (24V DCLS)
EPMS WEB
SOFTWARE BROWSER = 1per10 (24V DCLS)
= ASCII / RS-485
IRIG-B Ethernet
GPS EZC-IRIG-B
Clock PTP
Master
SER-3200-PTP
PANEL (or SER-2408-PTP)

IRIG-B IRIG-B
PLX-5V PLX-5V
PTP PTP PTP
Slave Relay Relay Relay Relay Slave Relay Relay Slave

SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP

(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)

PTP
Slave Meter Meter Meter Meter
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485 ASCII / RS-485
MV SWGR GEN SWGR

IRIG-B IRIG-B DCF77

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD 1 PDP 1 UPS 1

IRIG-B IRIG-B DCF77

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD n PDP n UPS n

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE 4—High-def time-sync over Ethernet using PTP; first SER is in same panel as GPS clock (IRIG-B time source)

© 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. www.cyber-sciences.com 17

TN-101 | Sep-2017 TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE 5 The next example is a variation on the design in the previous example 4.
(Sync first SER via IRIG-B, GPS clock) Time Source. The first CyTime SER is located in the MV switchgear and accepts IRIG-
B as its time source from a GPS clock.
Time Distribution (IRIG-B). Most protective relays also support IRIG-B time sync, and
so the same IRIG-B signal is daisy-chained to sync the relays, as well. If the number of
relays exceeds the number of devices the clock can support with one IRIG-B channel,
then a second IRIG-B output may be needed.
Time Distribution (PTP). The first SER serves as PTP grandmaster for all other CyTime
SERs (PTP slaves), synchronized within 100 µsec of each other.
Time Distribution (NTP) The GPS clock may also be equipped with an NTP server
option to sync devices which can accept NTP but do not support a precision time
protocol, such as the EPMS server.
Time Conversion. As in previous examples, the devices located in other power
distribution equipment enclosures are synchronized from a nearby SER, using the
protocol needed.

= IRIG-B (5V DCLS)

GPS
Antenna = DCF77 (24V DCLS)
EPMS WEB
SOFTWARE BROWSER = 1per10 (24V DCLS)
= ASCII / RS-485
Ethernet
GPS
Clock
IRIG-B

PANEL

IRIG-B IRIG-B

PTP EZC-IRIG-B PLX-5V

Master PTP PTP

Relay Relay Relay Relay Slave Relay Relay Slave

SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP

(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)

PTP
Slave Meter Meter Meter Meter
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485 ASCII / RS-485
MV SWGR GEN SWGR

IRIG-B IRIG-B DCF77

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD 1 PDP 1 UPS 1

IRIG-B IRIG-B DCF77

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD n PDP n UPS n

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE 5—High-def time-sync over Ethernet using PTP; first SER is in MV switchgear (IRIG-B time source from GPS clock)

18 www.cyber-sciences.com © 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved.

TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide TN-101 | Sep-2017

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE 6 Example 6 shown below takes the system architecture of Example 5 one important
(Sync 2 or more SERs via IRIG-B: step further.
PTP Master and PTP Standby Master) Time Source. In addition to the first SER, a second CyTime SER also accepts IRIG-B as
its time source from the GPS clock. In this design, both SERs are configured as a PTP
master using the same PTP domain number. Using the IEEE 1588 “Best Master Clock”
algorithm, one SER automatically acts as the PTP grandmaster clock, and the other
RECOMMENDED SOLUTION waits in standby mode in case it is ever needed as a backup.
Time Distribution. The first SER (or the backup SER) serves as PTP grandmaster for
all other CyTime SERs (PTP slaves), synchronized within 100 µsec of each other. If
the first clock fails or goes offline, the backup PTP master becomes the grandmaster
clock automatically and remains in service until the other is restored. This ensures
reliable, uninterrupted time service to all devices.
Time Conversion. As in previous examples, the devices located in other power
distribution equipment enclosures are synchronized from a nearby SER, using the
protocol needed.

= IRIG-B (5V DCLS)

GPS
Antenna = DCF77 (24V DCLS)
EPMS WEB
SOFTWARE BROWSER = 1per10 (24V DCLS)
= ASCII / RS-485
Ethernet
GPS
Clock
IRIG-B

PANEL

IRIG-B IRIG-B

PTP EZC-IRIG-B PTP EZC-IRIG-B PLX-5V

Master Master PTP PTP

Relay Relay Relay Relay (standby) Slave Relay Relay Slave

SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP

(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)

PTP
Slave Meter Meter Meter Meter
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485 ASCII / RS-485
MV SWGR GEN SWGR

IRIG-B IRIG-B DCF77

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD 1 PDP 1 UPS 1

IRIG-B IRIG-B DCF77

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD n PDP n UPS n

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE 6—High-def time-sync over Ethernet using PTP; two SERs accept IRIG-B from GPS clock, one is PTP master, other is standby

© 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. www.cyber-sciences.com 19

TN-101 | Sep-2017 TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE 7 Example 7 uses the same time source as Example 4; however, in this example, the
(Sync first SER via IRIG-B, relays via protective relays in the MV switchgear do not support PTP or IRIG-B; instead, they
require 1per10 protocol (e.g., Sepam 20/40/80 relays from Schneider Electric).
1per10)
Time Source. The first CyTime SER (PTP master) is located in the same panel as the
GPS clock and accepts IRIG-B as its precision time source.
Time Distribution (PTP). The first SER serves as PTP grandmaster for all other CyTime
SERs (PTP slaves), synchronized within 100 µsec of each other.
Time Conversion. Conveniently, the CyTime SER located in the MV switchgear (PTP
slave) also outputs 1per10 to the protective relays. Redundant cabling between the
GPS clock’s enclosure and the MV switchgear is avoided. This is especially crucial if
the MV switchgear is outdoors or in a different building than the control panel.
The examples for time sync of other EPMS devices (via IRIG-B, DCF77 or ASCII) are the
same as all the previous examples.

= IRIG-B (5V DCLS)

GPS
Antenna = DCF77 (24V DCLS)
EPMS WEB
SOFTWARE BROWSER = 1per10 (24V DCLS)
= ASCII / RS-485
IRIG-B Ethernet
GPS EZC-IRIG-B
Clock PTP
Master
SER-3200-PTP
PANEL (or SER-2408-PTP)

1per10 IRIG-B
PLX-24V PLX-5V
PTP PTP PTP
Slave Relay Relay Relay Relay Slave Relay Relay Slave

SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP

(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)

PTP
Slave Meter Meter Meter Meter
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485 ASCII / RS-485
MV SWGR GEN SWGR

IRIG-B IRIG-B DCF77

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD 1 PDP 1 UPS 1

IRIG-B IRIG-B DCF77

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD n PDP n UPS n

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE 7—High-def time-sync over Ethernet using PTP; first SER is in same panel as GPS clock (IRIG-B time source); relays use 1per10

20 www.cyber-sciences.com © 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved.

TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide TN-101 | Sep-2017

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE 8 Example 8 shows an alternate solution for providing the 1per10 time protocol
(Sync first SER sync via DCF77) required by some protective relays in the MV switchgear (e.g., Sepam 20/40/80 relays
from Schneider Electric).
Time Source. An STR-100 Satellite Time Reference (by Cyber Sciences) outputs
1per10 to the protective relays. The STR-100 industrial-grade specs allow it to be
mounted directly into the MV switchgear, typically in its instrument compartment.
The STR-100 accepts a GPS input from a Trimble Acutime 360 smart antenna.
The STR-100 also outputs a DCF77 time signal to one or more CyTime SERs. This pro-
vides flexibility to configure one or more SERs as a standby PTP master clock, similar
to the example described in Example 6.
Time Distribution. The first SER serves as PTP grandmaster for all other CyTime SERs
(PTP slaves), same as previous examples.
Time Conversion. The examples for time sync of other EPMS devices (via IRIG-B,
DCF77 or ASCII) are the same as previous examples.

= IRIG-B (5V DCLS)

Acutime 360
GPS = DCF77 (24V DCLS)
EPMS WEB
Antenna = 1per10 (24V DCLS)
(by Trimble) SOFTWARE BROWSER
= ASCII / RS-485
Ethernet

STR-100 1per10 IRIG-B

DCF77
EZC-DCF77 PLX-5V
PTP PTP PTP
Master Relay Relay Relay Relay Slave Relay Relay Slave

SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP

(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)

PTP
Slave Meter Meter Meter Meter
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485 ASCII / RS-485
MV SWGR GEN SWGR

IRIG-B IRIG-B DCF77

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD 1 PDP 1 UPS 1

IRIG-B IRIG-B DCF77

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD n PDP n UPS n

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE 8—High-def time-sync over Ethernet using PTP; STR-100 outputs DCF77 to first SER, 1per10 to protective relays

© 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. www.cyber-sciences.com 21

TN-101 | Sep-2017 TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide

LEGACY SYSTEM ARCHITECTURES These “Legacy System Architectures” are provided for reference to support older
systems without PTP.
SYSTEM L1—All DCF77 Devices The STR-100 Satellite Time Reference accepts an input from a Trimble Acutime 360
smart antenna (or modulated IRIG-B from a conventional clock) and outputs two
DCF77 output channels, each of which can sync up to 16 devices, as shown below.

Trimble AcutimeTM 360 = Acutime Interface

Smart GPS Antenna = Modulated IRIG-B

= DCF77

STR-100 RS-422 signal,

Satellite Time Reference Antenna interface cable: CAB-ACU-xxx
OR xxx = length (50, 100, 200 or 400 feet)
Modulated
Satellite Time Reference
DCF OUT GPS INTERFACE
PWR DCF
SYNC CH 1

IRIG-B
STAT CH 2

CH 1 CH 2 Daisy-chain wiring, Belden 8760 cable or

equivalent, 2000 feet (600m) max total length.
DCF77
up to 16
24Vdc devices
EZC-DCF77
(per channel)
DCF77 DCF77 DCF77

MENU ENTER

DCF77 SER-3200/2408
up to 16
Event Recorder
EZC-DCF77 EZC-DCF77 devices
DCF77 DCF77

MENU ENTER MENU ENTER

SER-3200/2408 SER-3200/2408
Event Recorder Event Recorder

Legacy system architecture # L1: An STR-100 provides a precision time reference for multiple devices via DCF77 cabling.

SYSTEM L2—DCF77 plus 1per10 STR-100 channel 2 is configurable for DCF77 (default) or 1per10, as shown below.

Trimble AcutimeTM 360 = Acutime Interface

Smart GPS Antenna = Modulated IRIG-B
= 1per10

STR-100 RS-422 signal, = DCF77

Satellite Time Reference Antenna interface cable: CAB-ACU-xxx
OR xxx = length (50, 100, 200 or 400 feet)
Modulated
Satellite Time Reference
DCF OUT GPS INTERFACE
PWR DCF
SYNC CH 1

IRIG-B
STAT CH 2

CH 1 CH 2 Daisy-chain wiring, Belden 8760 cable or

equivalent, 2000 feet (600m) max total length.
1per10
up to 16
24Vdc devices
1per10 1per10 1per10 1per10

DCF77
up to 16
EZC-DCF77 EZC-DCF77 EZC-DCF77 devices
DCF77 DCF77

MENU ENTER MENU ENTER MENU ENTER

SER-3200/2408 SER-3200/2408 SER-3200/2408

Event Recorder Event Recorder Event Recorder

Legacy system architecture # L2: STR-100 provides a precision time reference for multiple devices via DCF77 and 1per10 cabling, as needed.

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TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide TN-101 | Sep-2017

LEGACY SYSTEMS (cont.) IRIG-B is typically distributed as a 5 Vdc level shift (DCLS) also known as “Unmodu-
lated IRIG-B.” Shown below is a common GPS receiver/clock which outputs this IRIG-B
time code to multiple devices, including a CyTime SER-3200/2408. Refer to the clock
SYSTEM L3—All IRIG-B Devices manufacturer’s instructions for distance and device limitations for the IRIG-B signal.

GPS Antenna
= Unmodulated IRIG-B (5V DCLS)

Coax cable GPS Receiver/Clock

Daisy-chain wiring, Belden 8760 cable or

equivalent, 600 feet (200m) max total length.
IRIG-B (unmodulated)

EZC-IRIG-B
up to 4 IRIG-B IRIG-B IRIG-B SER-3200/2408
devices
Event Recorder
(typically) MENU ENTER

Legacy system architecture # L3: GPS receiver/clock provides a precision time reference for multiple devices via IRIG-B cabling.

SYSTEM L4—IRIG-B + Inter-SER (RS-485) In the past, a CyTime SER-3200/2408 could accept IRIG-B or DCF77 as time source
and serve as a time-sync master to synchronize additional SER units over its SER
inter-device (RS-485) sub-network, as shown below. This was used to extend the
IRIG-B time-sync signal to a large number of devices and/or over longer distances.
Today, running redundant RS-485 cables between SER devices is no longer needed;
instead, PTP is used to achieve the same performance over Ethernet.

GPS Antenna
= Unmodulated IRIG-B (5V DCLS)
= SER Inter-device (RS-485)
Coax cable GPS Receiver/Clock

Daisy-chain wiring, Belden 8760 cable or

equivalent, 600 feet (200m) max total length.
IRIG-B (unmodulated)

EZC-IRIG-B
up to 4 IRIG-B IRIG-B IRIG-B SER-3200/2408
devices
Event Recorder
(typically) MENU ENTER

IRIG-B over RS-485 RS-485

For new installations, even for existing SER-3200/2408

sites, Cyber Sciences strongly Event Recorder
recommends using PTP time sync (over
MENU ENTER MENU ENTER MENU ENTER

Ethernet) instead of this older method of up to 32

inter-SER sync using RS-485 cabling. devices
Daisy-chain wiring, Belden 9841 cable or
equivalent, 4000 feet (1200m) max length.

Legacy system architecture # L4: GPS receiver/clock provides a precision time reference to one SER-3200/2408 and others are sync’d via RS-485.

© 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. www.cyber-sciences.com 23

TN-101 | Sep-2017 TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide

LEGACY SYSTEMS (cont.) Another legacy system architecture used in the past is the hybrid system shown
below to support two types of time protocols: IRIG-B and DCF77. In this example, the
GPS receiver/clock outputs a conventional, unmodulated IRIG-B (5V DCLS) signal to
SYSTEM L5—IRIG-B plus DCF77 Devices devices which can accept this time-sync method. In addition, a modulated IRIG-B
signal is connected to the STR-100, which serves as a protocol converter to generate
the 24 Vdc DCF77 signal required by the other devices.
Note that the CyTime SER-3200/2408 Event Recorders can accept either IRIG-B or
DCF77. In addition, with the advent of PTP, this architecture is no longer practical.

GPS Antenna
= Modulated IRIG-B
= Unmodulated IRIG-B (5V DCLS)
Coax cable GPS Receiver/Clock = DCF77

Modulated IRIG-B Daisy-chain wiring, Belden 8760 cable or

equivalent, 600 feet (200m) max total length.
IRIG-B (unmodulated)

EZC-IRIG-B
STR-100 up to 4 IRIG-B IRIG-B IRIG-B SER-3200/2408
devices
Satellite Time Reference

Event Recorder
DCF OUT GPS INTERFACE
PWR DCF
SYNC CH 1

(typically)
STAT CH 2

MENU ENTER

CH 1 CH 2

BNC-2W
24Vdc

Daisy-chain wiring, Belden 8760 cable or

equivalent, 2000 feet (600m) max total length.
DCF77
up to 16
EZC-DCF77 devices
DCF77 DCF77 DCF77

MENU ENTER

SER-3200/2408
Event Recorder

Legacy system architecture # L5: GPS receiver/clock provides a precision time reference for devices via IRIG-B cabling and DCF77 cabling (from STR-100).

24 www.cyber-sciences.com © 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved.

TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide TN-101 | Sep-2017

UPGRADING A LEGACY DESIGN TO Project specs based on a legacy design?

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF PTP It’s quote stage and the specs are based on a legacy (obsolete) design described in
the previous section; now what? Or maybe you just won the project, but you quoted
it based on a legacy architecture. It may not be too late to take advantage of PTP
technology, saving you cost and complexity and delivering a much better solution
for the end user.
With legacy protocols, the number and type of devices to be synchronized, the
protocols supported, and the distances involved all affect system architecture. Each
system must be engineered individually.

Example: IRIG-B and ASCII/RS-485 In the example below, the system includes devices that support IRIG-B (including
CyTime SERs) and meters that require ASCII/RS-485. A GPS clock generates the IRIG-B
signal, but since it is distributed at low voltage (5V nominal pulses), multiple circuits
are run from the clock. Careful consideration of clock specs, cable distances and
device limitations complicate the design.
Repeaters are required, depending on system size (number of devices and/or long
distances). In some cases, fiber-optic repeaters may be required for isolation. Each
IRIG-B and RS-485 daisy chain must be terminated properly to avoid signal reflec-
tions. Additional phases may require additional sets of GPS antenna and clock to
scale to support the new system scope.
All models of CyTime SER can accept IRIG-B (or DCF77) as time source and generate
the ASCII/RS-485 signal output to the meters that require this, avoiding the need to
run additional redundant cables throughout the system.
You may be thinking “there must be a better way.” You are right. Please continue
reading.

GPS = IRIG-B (5V DCLS) GPS Additional GPS

Antenna Antenna antenna and
EPMS WEB clocks to scale up
SOFTWARE BROWSER = ASCII / RS-485 as needed

Ethernet
GPS GPS
Clock Clock
IRIG-B IRIG-B

PANEL PANEL

IRIG-B IRIG-B IRIG-B IRIG-B

Repeater Repeater
EZC-IRIG-B EZC-IRIG-B EZC-IRIG-B EZC-IRIG-B

PANEL Relay Relay Relay Relay Relay Relay PANEL

SER-3200-P2X2 SER-3200-P2X2 SER-3200-P2X2 SER-3200-P2X2
(or SER-2408-P2X2) (or SER-2408-P2X2) (or SER-2408-P2X2) (or SER-2408-P2X2)

Meter Meter Meter Meter

ASCII / RS-485 ASCII / RS-485

MV SWGR GEN SWGR

IRIG-B IRIG-B IRIG-B IRIG-B

Repeater Repeater
EZC-IRIG-B EZC-IRIG-B EZC-IRIG-B EZC-IRIG-B

Meter Meter Meter Meter Meter

PANEL PANEL

ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD 1 PDP 1 UPS 1

IRIG-B IRIG-B IRIG-B IRIG-B

Repeater Repeater
EZC-IRIG-B EZC-IRIG-B EZC-IRIG-B EZC-IRIG-B

Meter Meter Meter Meter Meter

PANEL PANEL

ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD n PDP n UPS n

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE—LEGACY DESIGN (IRIG-B AND ASCII/RS-485)

© 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. www.cyber-sciences.com 25

TN-101 | Sep-2017 TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide

UPGRADING A LEGACY DESIGN TO PTP simplifies system design by eliminating redundant cabling between power
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF PTP (cont.) equipment lineups as well as converters and repeaters required by legacy protocols.
By leveraging the existing Ethernet network already used for data communications,
distance concerns are eliminated. As shown below, by upgrading the CyTime SERs to
PTP models and making other small changes to the previous example with legacy
protocols, the time-sync architecture is greatly simplified. In addition, PTP ensures
easy scalability as the system grows.
Example: PTP time sync over Ethernet, In the PTP-based design shown below, two SERs accept IRIG-B as their time source
with support for IRIG-B and ASCII/RS-485 from a GPS clock. With this approach, one serves as PTP master, while the other waits
in passive mode (standby) for redundancy in case the first is taken out of service.
All other CyTime SERs are set to use PTP as their time source (PTP slaves), and sync
automatically to the SER serving as PTP master. In addition, these are configured
to output the legacy protocol required by nearby devices. Thus, in addition to their
main function of event recording, they serve as a PTP “time sync hub” for those
devices that do not support PTP directly.

GPS = IRIG-B (5V DCLS)

Antenna
EPMS WEB
SOFTWARE BROWSER = ASCII / RS-485

Ethernet
GPS
Clock
IRIG-B

PANEL

IRIG-B IRIG-B

PTP EZC-IRIG-B PTP EZC-IRIG-B PLX-5V

Master Master PTP PTP

Relay Relay Relay Relay (standby) Slave Relay Relay Slave

SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP

(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)

PTP
Slave Meter Meter Meter Meter
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485 ASCII / RS-485
MV SWGR GEN SWGR

IRIG-B IRIG-B IRIG-B

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-5V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD 1 PDP 1 UPS 1

IRIG-B IRIG-B IRIG-B

PLX-5V PLX-5V PLX-5V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
ASCII / RS-485
LV SWBD n PDP n UPS n

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE—PTP-ENABLED DESIGN (IRIG-B AND ASCII/RS-485)

26 www.cyber-sciences.com © 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved.

TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide TN-101 | Sep-2017

UPGRADING A LEGACY DESIGN TO In the next example, the system includes devices that support IRIG-B as well as some
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF PTP (cont.) that require DCF77. As in the previous example, a GPS clock generates the IRIG-B sig-
nal, distributed by multiple IRIG-B circuits. This time, the need for the second legacy
protocol (DCF77) complicates the design further.

Example: IRIG-B and DCF77 Converters are used, in this case accepting Modulated IRIG-B from the GPS clock and
outputting DCF77 at 24 Vdc. As before, each IRIG-B and DCF77 daisy chain should
be terminated properly to avoid signal reflections. Also as before, additional phases
may require additional sets of GPS antenna and clock to scale to support the new
system scope.
All models of CyTime SER can accept either IRIG-B or DCF77 as time source, and so
the SERs could be wired for either signal, whichever is more convenient.
In some ways, DCF77 is slightly better suited to power applications than IRIG-B, in
that DCF77 is typically distributed as a 24 Vdc signal, not 5 Vdc. The example below
shows an extension of the DCF77 daisy-chain across to devices in other equipment
enclosures, as might be possible, depending on distances and the total number of
devices. However, as before, each system must be carefully engineered individually.

GPS = IRIG-B (5V DCLS) GPS Additional GPS

Antenna Antenna antenna and
EPMS WEB clocks to scale up
SOFTWARE BROWSER = IRIG-B (Modulated) as needed
= DCF77
Ethernet
GPS GPS
Clock Clock
IRIG-B (DCLS) IRIG-B (DCLS)

PANEL PANEL
IRIG-B
IRIG-B
(Modulated)
IRIG-B IRIG-B
EZC-IRIG-B EZC-IRIG-B EZC-IRIG-B EZC-IRIG-B

Relay Relay Relay Relay Relay Relay

SER-3200-P2X2 SER-3200-P2X2 SER-3200-P2X2 SER-3200-P2X2
(or SER-2408-P2X2) (or SER-2408-P2X2) (or SER-2408-P2X2) (or SER-2408-P2X2)
STR-100

DCF77 DCF77
EZC-DCF77 EZC-DCF77
PANEL
Meter Meter Meter Meter
SER-3200-P2X2 SER-3200-P2X2
IRIG-B (or SER-2408-P2X2) (or SER-2408-P2X2)
(Modulated) MV SWGR GEN SWGR

STR-100

DCF77
EZC-DCF77 EZC-DCF77 EZC-DCF77 EZC-DCF77
PANEL
Meter Meter Meter Meter Meter
SER-3200-P2X2 SER-3200-P2X2 SER-3200-P2X2 SER-3200-P2X2
(or SER-2408-P2X2) (or SER-2408-P2X2) (or SER-2408-P2X2) (or SER-2408-P2X2)

LV SWBD 1 PDP 1 UPS 1

IRIG-B
(Modulated)

STR-100

DCF77
EZC-DCF77 EZC-DCF77 EZC-DCF77 EZC-DCF77
PANEL
Meter Meter Meter Meter Meter
SER-3200-P2X2 SER-3200-P2X2 SER-3200-P2X2 SER-3200-P2X2
(or SER-2408-P2X2) (or SER-2408-P2X2) (or SER-2408-P2X2) (or SER-2408-P2X2)

LV SWBD n PDP n UPS n

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE—LEGACY DESIGN (IRIG-B AND DCF77)

© 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. www.cyber-sciences.com 27

TN-101 | Sep-2017 TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide

UPGRADING A LEGACY DESIGN TO PTP simplifies system design by eliminating redundant cabling between power
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF PTP (cont.) equipment lineups as well as converters and repeaters required by legacy protocols.
By leveraging the existing Ethernet network already used for data communications,
distance concerns are eliminated. As shown below, by upgrading the CyTime SERs to
PTP models and making other small changes to the previous example with legacy
protocols, the time-sync architecture is greatly simplified. In addition, PTP ensures
easy scalability as the system grows.

Example: PTP time sync over Ethernet, In the PTP-based design shown below, two SERs accept IRIG-B as their time source
with support for IRIG-B and DCF77 from a GPS clock. With this approach, one serves as PTP master, while the other waits
in passive mode (standby) for redundancy in case the first is taken out of service.
All other CyTime SERs are set to use PTP as their time source (PTP slaves), and sync
automatically to the SER serving as PTP master. In addition, these are configured
to output the legacy protocol required by nearby devices. Thus, in addition to their
main function of event recording, they serve as a PTP “time sync hub” for those
devices that do not support PTP directly.

GPS = IRIG-B (5V DCLS)

Antenna
EPMS WEB
SOFTWARE BROWSER = DCF77

Ethernet
GPS
Clock
IRIG-B

PANEL

IRIG-B IRIG-B

PTP EZC-IRIG-B PTP EZC-IRIG-B PLX-5V

Master Master PTP

Relay Relay Relay Relay (standby) Slave Relay Relay
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)

DCF77 DCF77
PLX-24V PLX-24V
PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)
MV SWGR GEN SWGR

DCF77 DCF77 DCF77 DCF77

PLX-24V PLX-24V PLX-24V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)

LV SWBD 1 PDP 1 UPS 1

DCF77 DCF77 DCF77 DCF77

PLX-24V PLX-24V PLX-24V PLX-24V
PTP PTP PTP PTP
Slave Meter Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter Slave Meter
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP)

LV SWBD n PDP n UPS n

EPMS SYSTEM EXAMPLE—PTP-ENABLED DESIGN (IRIG-B AND DCF77)

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TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide TN-101 | Sep-2017

EXTENDING TIME SYNC FROM AN Use an Existing IRIG-B Signal to Simplify PTP Time Sync
EXISTING SYSTEM It is possible to take advantage of PTP technology when adding a section to an
existing site with time sync based on legacy protocols. Instead of running long
Extending An Existing IRIG-B Signal cables from an existing GPS clock or section, just connect the legacy protocol (in this
example, IRIG-B) to an SER-3200-PTP (or SER-2408-PTP) through its EZC-IRIG-B
connector, then configure the device as a PTP master. As long as all other SERs in the
Existing new section are on the same Ethernet LAN, they will sync automatically to the PTP
New Section
master, within 100 microseconds. In addition, any SER PTP slave can serve as a “PTP
time sync hub” as described previously, and sync other EPMS devices using the
legacy protocol(s) they require.

Belden 8760 cable or equivalent, NEW

600 feet (200m) max total length.

IRIG-B (unmodulated) Ethernet

IRIG-B or
EZC-IRIG-B
DCF77 or
IRIG-B IRIG-B 1per10
EPMS
MENU ENTER MENU ENTER MENU ENTER

device
PTP
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) ASCII / RS-485

EXISTING PTP MASTER PTP SLAVES

Add new SER-3200-PTP (or SER-2408-PTP) to existing unmodulated IRIG-B daisy-chain

(or field upgrade existing SER to PTP model).

Extending An Existing DCF77 Signal Use an Existing DCF77 Signal to Simplify PTP Time Sync
Similar to the example above, an existing DCF77 signal can be connected to an
SER-3200-PTP (or SER-2408-PTP) through its EZC-DCF77 connector, then configured
Existing as PTP master. As long as all other SERs in the new section are on the same Ethernet
New Section
LAN, they will sync automatically within 100 microseconds. In addition, any SER PTP
slave can serve as a “PTP time sync hub” as described previously, and sync other
EPMS devices using the legacy protocol(s) they require.

Belden 8760 cable or equivalent, NEW

600 feet (200m) max total length.

DCF77 Ethernet
IRIG-B or
EZC-DCF77
DCF77 or
DCF77 DCF77 1per10
EPMS
MENU ENTER MENU ENTER MENU ENTER

device
PTP
SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) ASCII / RS-485

EXISTING PTP MASTER PTP SLAVES

Add new SER-3200-PTP (or SER-2408-PTP) to existing DCF77 (24 Vdc) daisy-chain
(or field upgrade existing SER to PTP model).

© 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. www.cyber-sciences.com 29

TN-101 | Sep-2017 TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide

EXTENDING TIME SYNC FROM AN Start with Existing NTP Server, Convert to PTP Time Sync
EXISTING SYSTEM (cont.) It is possible to take advantage of PTP technology when adding a section to an
existing site with time sync based on NTP as well. Configure an SER-3200-PTP (or
Existing NTP Server SER-2408-PTP) in the new section as a PTP master using NTP as its time source. As
long as all other SERs in the new section are on the same Ethernet LAN, they will
sync automatically to the PTP master, within 100 microseconds of each other, even if
Existing the NTP time is less accurate. In addition, any SER PTP slave can serve as a “PTP time
New Section
sync hub” as described previously, and sync other EPMS devices using the legacy
protocol(s) they require.
Note: this system architecture is presented previously in EPMS system example 2.

NTP Server NEW

Ethernet

PTP MASTER
NTP NTP
client client MENU ENTER

NTP PTP
SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP)

EXISTING

IRIG-B or
DCF77 or
1per10
EPMS
MENU ENTER MENU ENTER

device

SER-3200-PTP SER-3200-PTP
(or SER-2408-PTP) (or SER-2408-PTP) ASCII / RS-485

PTP SLAVES

Configure one SER-3200-PTP (or SER-2408-PTP) to use NTP as its time source from the existing NTP server, then enable it as PTP master to sync all other
SERs (also PTP models) automatically over Ethernet.

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TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide TN-101 | Sep-2017

TECHNICAL REFERENCE The table below summarizes recommended cable types for various protocols. They
are provided only as a guideline. Consult device manufacturers’ literature and verify
that any cable meets the requirements of your project before ordering materials.

LEGACY TIME-SYNC PROTOCOLS—CABLE SUMMARY

Max. # of Max. Recommended

Time Protocol Description
Devices Distance Cable
1000 feet Belden 8760 Shielded, twisted-pair cable, copper, #18
IRIG-B, unmodulated (5V DCLS) 4
(300 m) (or equiv.) AWG, 300V rms
300 feet Belden 8760 Shielded, twisted-pair cable, copper, #18
IRIG-B, modulated 4
(100 m) (or equiv.) AWG, 300V rms
2000 feet Belden 8760 Shielded, twisted-pair cable, copper, #18
DCF77 16
(600 m) (or equiv.) AWG, 300V rms
2000 feet Belden 8760 Shielded, twisted-pair cable, copper, #18
1per10 (1 pulse every 10 sec.) 16
(600 m) (or equiv.) AWG, 300V rms
IRIG-B, unmodulated, @ 24 Vdc plus 2000 feet Belden 8770 Shielded, 3-conductor cable, copper, #18
8
24 Vdc power (to/from STR-IDM or PLX) (600 m) (or equiv.) AWG, 300V rms
IRIG-B, unmodulated, over RS-485 4000 feet Belden 9841 Shielded, twisted-pair cable, copper, #24
32
(SER Inter-Device) (1200 m) (or equiv.) AWG, 300V rms
DCF77, over RS-485 sub-network 4000 feet Belden 9841 Shielded, twisted-pair cable, copper, #24
32
(SER Inter-Device) (1200 m) (or equiv.) AWG, 300V rms
ASCII, over RS-485 sub-network 4000 feet Belden 9841 Shielded, twisted-pair cable, copper, #24
16
(from SER-3200/2408 time-master) (1200 m) (or equiv.) AWG, 300V rms

Shielded, six-twisted-pair cable, #22 AWG,

Trimble Acutime 360 smart GPS 400 feet Acutime 360
1 with 12-pin connector on one end. Available
antenna interface cable (RS-422) (120 m) Interface Cable
in lengths of 50, 100, 200 and 400 feet.

Antenna interface cable between 1000 feet Belden 8723 Shielded, two-twisted-pair cable, copper, #22
7
STR-100s when sharing an antenna (300 m) (or equiv.) AWG, 300V rms

CABLE TERMINATION For SER Inter-Device (RS-485) time-sync sub-networks, Cyber Sciences recommends
using a 120 Ohm resistor (1/4 watt) across the twisted-pair, per the EIA standard. The
termination, as the name suggests, should be placed at the end of the network, after
the last device on the daisy-chain.
Due to the nature of the signal and baud rates associated with DCF77, 1per10 and
IRIG-B time protocols, line termination is normally not required. If cable distances
are near their maximum limits and signal reflections are suspected to affect reliable
operation, line terminations may be added as follows:
If desired, Cyber Sciences recommends using a 100 Ohm resistor (1/4 watt) across
the signal pair, in series with a 0.01 µF (microfarad) capacitor. This will minimize
reflections of the time-code pulse.

PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS The suggested distance limits and max devices suggested in this document are
based on standard specifications, factory testing and field experience. Some of the
recommendations may be conservative, and few are absolute limits. While it may
be technically feasible to exceed such guidelines, the total distance and number of
devices on a given segment should be kept as small as possible for practical reasons.
For example, rather than combine 30 or more devices on the same chain, it may be
better to split these into two segments if possible, simply to avoid costly trouble-
shooting later.

© 2011-2017 Cyber Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. www.cyber-sciences.com 31

TN-101 | Sep-2017 TECH NOTE—SER System Design Guide

SUMMARY Power Management in High Definition

Modern power monitoring systems require 1-msec time-stamping, and so “hi-def”
time sync (accuracy <100 µs) is required. SER devices record the exact time of power
system events (1-msec timestamping), enabling root-cause analysis, identifying slow
breakers and allowing operators to verify proper system operation. Until recently,
separate, redundant cabling (often involving multiple protocols) was needed, limit-
ing the benefits to only the largest projects.
Precision Time Protocol (PTP), defined in IEEE 1588, enables hi-def time sync over
Ethernet. Simple PTP (SPTP) makes PTP relevant for commercial/industrial power
systems, extending the benefits of precision timing to a broader market, even those
previously forced to compromise performance or functionality to keep costs low.
The PTP-enabled solution is simple, affordable and completely scalable, from a few
devices to the largest installation.
This document presented examples of the most cost-effective system architectures
and showed typical applications of Cyber Sciences products. Since some relays and
meters do not yet support PTP, Cyber Sciences provides ways for these to be “PTP-
enabled” too.

References
For More Information [1] IEEE Std 1588™-2008, IEEE Standard for a Precision Clock Synchronization Proto-
EPMS-HD Data Sheet (DS-PTP-01) col for Networked Measurement and Control Systems.
Tech Note: Hi-res Time Sync using PTP/1588 (TN-100) [2] IEEE Std C37.238-2011, IEEE Standard Profile for Use of IEEE 1588™ Precision Time
Tech Note: IRIG-B Time Codes (TN-102) Protocol in Power System Applications
Tech Note: DCF77 Time Protocol (TN-103) [3] Kennedy, Robert A., P.E., “GPS Time Synchronization: How precision timing and
Tech Note: 1per10 Time Protocol (TN-104) sequence of events recording will make the Smart Grid even smarter,” Electrical Con-
struction & Maintenance (EC&M) magazine, August 19, 2011, pp. 18-20.
Tech Note: ASCII/RS-485 (TN-108) http://ecmweb.com/computers-amp-software/gps-time-synchronization
CyTime SER User’s Guide (IB-SER-01)
[4] Brown, PE, Bill, and Mark Kozlowski, “Power System Event Reconstruction Technolo-
CyTime SER Reference Guide (IB-SER-02) gies for Modern Data Centers,” Square D Critical Power Competency Center. Aug. 2006.
EZC Instruction Bulletin (IB-EZC-01)
[5] Dickerson, Bill, P.Eng., Arbiter Systems, Inc. “Time in the Power Industry: How and
PLX Instruction Bulletin (IB-PLX-01) Why We Use It.”
STR-100 Instruction Bulletin (IB-STR-01)
[6] Technical Note: ION Time Synchronization and Timekeeping, Schneider Electric,
STR-IDM Instruction Bulletin (IB-IDM-01) 06/2009.
SER System Guide Specs (GS-SER-01)
[7] Product instruction bulletins for relays and meters from ABB, Eaton, GE, Schnei-
der Electric, Siemens and others referenced in this document.

The service marks, “Precision Timing for Reliable Power. Simplified.” and “I-Heart-1588”,
CyTime, and the Cyber Sciences stylized logo are trademarks of Cyber Sciences.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Pb I 1588
SM

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Cyber Sciences, Inc. (CSI)

229 Castlewood Drive, Suite E
Murfreesboro, TN 37129 USA
Tel: +1 615-890-6709 Doc. no: TN-101 Sep-2017
Fax: +1 615-439-1651 (supersedes doc. dated Nov-2016)

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