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Y2K Compliance Testing

Arbiter Systems designed the line of GPS products to be year 2000 compliant. Customers who would like to test and verify that the Satellite-Controlled clock they purchased is compliant should follow one of the simple test procedures below.

Testing With a GPS Simulator:

  1. Obtain a GPS simulator with 8-channel capability.
  2. Setup the GPS simulator according to manufacture's directions.
  3. Connect the output of the GPS simulator to the antenna input.
  4. Turn on the Satellite-Controlled Clock under test.
  5. Monitor the clock for correct operation.
  6. Set the simulator output to the desired time.
  7. Observe the time rollover while monitoring the clock under test.

Testing Without a GPS Simulator:

  1. Connect the Satellite-Controlled Clock serial port to a computer or terminal serial port using a null-modem cable (see manual for RS-232 pin out).
  2. Disconnect the GPS antenna cable from the rear of the Satellite-Controlled Clock.
  3. Turn the Satellite-Controlled Clock on.
  4. Using a terminal program establish an RS-232 connection between the clock and the computer.
  5. Monitor the clock for correct operation.
  6. Set the clock to the desired time using the 'TS' command (see manual for syntax).
  7. Observe the time rollover while monitoring the clock under test.

Satellite-Controlled Clock Test ROM

Arbiter Systems has developed Y2K TEST ROMS to allow customers to test any external equipment connected to an Arbiter Systems Satellite-Controlled Clock for Y2K compliance. The ROM allows the user to replace the GPS time and date with any specified time and date. The Satellite-Controlled Clock outputs the time and date specified while maintaining GPS lock so all status information is maintained. Maintaining status information will keep connected equipment from disbelieving the external time synchronization inputs. (Some equipment may not use the year information contained in the broadcast. An example would be a device that uses the day of year information. This device will change the day of year but will be in the wrong year. This style of device will have to have the year set manually and then the broadcast information will be translated correctly.)

The ROM can be field installed with minimal effort. Installation involves turning the unit off, removing the cover, removing the operational ROM and swapping with the Y2K ROM. Detailed instructions on operation and installation are provided with each Y2K ROM. Contact Arbiter Systems or your local Arbiter Systems Representative for more information.