Datasheet

OctoClock Datasheet

• Note: The OctoClock CDA-2990 model shown on this page does NOT include an internal 10 MHz/1 PPS source.  An external, source must be used to generate and distribute 10 MHz/1 PPS signals with this product.  See the OctoClock-G CDA 2990 for a fully integrated solution with an internal GPSDO.
  

• 8-Way Time and Frequency Distribution (1 PPS and 10 MHz)
• Convenient Solution for Multi-Channel Synchronization
• Use with MIMO Capable N-Series Devices for Coherent System
• External 10 MHz/1 PPS Source Required
• 19″ Rackmount – 1U

The OctoClock CDA-2990 is an affordable solution for high-accuracy time and frequency reference distribution.  This is a useful accessory for users that would like to build multi-channel systems that are synchronized  to a common timing source.  For example, the OctoClock CDA-2990 can be used to synchronize a system of USRP N210s  for coherent operation.  This is useful for many applications such as beamforming, direction-finding, diversity combining, or MIMO transceiver design.

The OctoClock CDA-2990 accepts 1 pulse-per-second (1 PPS) and 10 MHz reference inputs from an external source such as a Rubidium standard.  Active components are used to amplify and distribute these signals with matched-length traces to 8 outputs.

Users have the option to purchase the upgraded OctoClock-G CDA-2990, which includes an internal GPS-disciplined, oven-controlled oscillator (GPSDO).  The GPSDO serves as an accurate reference that can be synchronized to the GPS timing standard.  This allows developers to time-align multi-channel systems across the globe within ~50 ns.  When the GPSDO is not locked to the GPS constellation, it still provides 10 MHz/1 PPS signals, with an accuracy better than 25 ppb.  If this upgrade is interesting for current or future applications, please visit the OctoClock-G CDA-2990 product page.

Helpful Resources

• OctoClock CDA-2990 Knowledge Base
• Application Note – Synchronization and MIMO Capability with USRP Devices
• UHD API Notes for Multi-USRP Configurations

Sample Applications

• National Instruments – Direction Finding with NI-USRP
• Building an Affordable 8×8 MIMO Testbed with NI-USRP