XLi FAQ
XLi Product
What do I get with the base XLi
Why should I buy an XLi product?
Why should I purchase this product versus another product from another company?
What markets does the XLi support?
Who should buy an XLi product?
What kind of accuracy should I expect with an XLi product?
Is this product delivered from stock?
What kind of lead-time does the XLi have?
Does the XLi replace the XL-DC?
Is the XLi backward compatible with the XL-DC?
Will my XL-DC cards work in the XLi?
What's the difference between XLi and XL-DC?
What kind of a display does the XLi have?
Is the XLi easy to use?
What new features does the XLi have?
What does modularity mean?
Is the XLi an upgraded XL-DC?
When will the XL-DC be obsoleted?
Can the XLi be used to replace an existing XL-DC without any changes?
What are the benefits of upgrading my XL-DC with the XLi?
Can I use my existing XL-DC option cards in the new XLi? If so, which ones?
How do I communicate with the XLi
How can I upgrade the software of the XLi?
How many options can I add?
Can I add redundant options?
Can I add redundant GPS receivers?
Can I add redundant power supplies?
Does the redundancy include the oscillators?
What different oscillators can I add to the unit?
Are the any options hot swappable?
Can I have "special" requirement designed in the XLi?
My XLi is running but there is no PPS or IRIG out.
What display modes can I have?
How much does the XLi weigh?
Time Code Unit (TCU)
How does the XLi work as Time Code Unit?
Can it operate as time code and GPS receiver simultaneously?
Can I integrate a "special" TCU requirement with the XLi?
Can the XLi operate as a countdown generator and what codes will it support?
Which time code products does the XLi replace from the Symmetricom line?
What codes are available in the XLi standard and optionally?
What are the advantages of the XLi over the 800 and 900 series?
What are the advantage of 800/900 series TCU over XLi
Is fault sense and switching available for multiple time code inputs?
What time codes can be used as a sync source for NTP?
Can I sync to NTP and generate time code 1pps,rate, frequency etc?
Network Port
Is the network port an option?
What functionality can I get from the network port? And what are the benefits?
What security does the network port have? And what are the benefits?
Does the XLi support SNMP protocol?
What kind of SNMP functionality is available?
How can the network port serve time like NTS?
Can I enter commands to the unit through the network port?
Can I get NTP without GPS?
What references can be used as a sync source for NTP?
Antenna and Cable
Will my XL-DC antenna work with the XLi system
Will my XL-DC Down/Up converter work with the XLi
Are the antenna and cable shipped standard with the XLi?
What is the standard cable length included with the GPS receiver XLi system?
What is the maximum length supported by the GPS receiver without preamplifier?
From which length of cable is the preamplifier required?
From which length of cable RG 59 is the Down/Up converter required?
What if I want more than 1500 ft cable?
Service and Support
How does XLi improve service and support?
Can Symmetricom access my XLi remotely?
Do I need to ship my XLi to Symmetricom for service and upgrades?
What do I do when the CPU is defective?
What diagnostic tools available for the XLi?
-----------------------
XLi Product
1) What do I get with the base XLi
Standard features of the XLi are:
- Generator + Translator + Synchronized Generator
- Better than 30 ns rms accuracy to UTC
- Better than 1x10-12 frequency accuracy
- Code In Sync to AM or DC IRIG A, B and NASA 36
- Code out AM or DC IRIG A, B and NASA 36
- Rate out 10MPPS default, programmable to 1PPS, 10PPS, 100KPPS,... 10MPPS
- Alarm Open Collector via rear BNC
- Auxiliary reference for sync to external 1Mhz, 5Mhz and 10Mhz
- Vacuum fluorescent display and keypad
- RS-232 / RS-422 user selectable
- Ethernet network Port
- Telnet and SNMP
- Enterprise MIB, FTP (for firmware upgrades) and DHCP
- Flash Memory for remote software upgrades
- AC Power Supply 90-264V
- 4 options slots for 1U chassis (1.75 inch)
- 10 options slots for 2U chassis (3.5 inch)
2) Why should I buy an XLi product?
Modularity, flexibility and the most plug-in options available in any timing product allows for best configuration for your unique timing requirement. Combined with a standard network port for remote control and monitoring, a clean "plug and play" options platform, and a bright vacuum fluorescent display. XLi is the best price performance Time and Frequency Unit available
3) Why should I purchase this product versus another product from another company?
The most standard features, the most standard options available in the industry, quick configuration, field upgradeability, bright vacuum fluorescent display, multi-interfaces for control and the industry's first standard network port. XLi leverages Symmetricom long history of technology expertise in the Time and Frequency field. With the best customer service, Symmetricom sales will help you configure the right XLi for you, and customer support will give you the best service and advice to get the most out of your system. Put us to the test and give us a call.
4) What markets does the XLi support?
XLi is essential to application that requires precise timing, synchronization, or frequency source. A GPS timing source-reference or just a Time Code Unit (TCU) for countdown, generator or synchronized generator. With the numerous options that it has, XLi is a custom fit for any application in the test/measurement, process automation, power system control, military test ranges, military communications, telecommunications, television broadcast, satellite ground stations, and research facilities.
5) Who should buy an XLi product?
Anybody with need for precise timing, synchronization signal, frequency signals, rates, IRIG codes, launch codes, Telecommunication synchronization, Time stamping, NTS Network Time Server, T1, E1 synchronization needs, Data rate generator, power utility timing, Satellite ground station synchronization, test range facilities, HDTV synchronization and any time synchronization and frequency needs, with or without GPS time receiver.
6) What kind of accuracy should I expect with an XLi product?
Accuracy is a function of the input source to the system. With XLi you can expect better that 1x10-12 frequency accuracy and better than 30ns rms 1PPS accuracy to UTC.
7) Is this product delivered from stock?
Despite its sophistication and huge capability, The XLi is Custom Of The Shelf (COTS) product with typical lead-time of less than three weeks
8) What kind of lead-time does the XLi have?
Because of its modularity and ease of configuration, a completely custom and uniquely configured system typically takes three weeks or less from the time of order to the time of shipping.
9) Does the XLi replace the XL-DC?
The XLi is functionally compatible with the XL-DC. The XL-DC has been the best Time and Frequency product on the market since 1995, and the XLi continues this heritage with more advances and new state of the art design.
10) Is the XLi backward compatible with the XL-DC?
The XLi is functionally compatible with XL-DC, and all the commands that control XL-DC (F-commands) are the same. But due to the XLi new architecture and all the added features and benefits, it is not possible to be backward compatible with interface software. If you have software written that interfaces with the XL-DC you have to modify it for the XLi, and take advantage of all the new features, especially using the new Network port.
11) Will my XL-DC cards work in the XLi?
Because of the added features and the new XLi platform, Symmetricom does not recommend users to plug XL-DC cards in the XLi system. This includes all "special" designs for XL-DC. Please consult Symmetricom before attempting to use any XL-DC card in the XLi.
12) What's the difference between XLi and XL-DC?
XLi has a lot more added advantages and features over the XL-DC. The GPS receiver is an option to the XLi, and without it, the system operates as a Time Code Unit (TCU) for all the Time Codes supported, please consult datasheet for the latest Time Codes. With GPS, the system is a precision GPS time source for all the various functions and codes needed. The XLi has the industry's first standard network port for remote control and monitoring with multi-layer password protection, SNMP, Telnet, FTP and DHCP. The automatic options recognition software enables for "plug and play" which has the advantage of field upgradeability. And with flash memory, the XLi software can be upgraded remotely using FTP and the network port. XLi has a brilliant multi-line vacuum fluorescent display. It has the capability of displaying different status of the system, or the Time of Year (TOY) as DDD: HH:MM:SS in big bold and bright digits.
13) What kind of a display does the XLi have?
The XLi has a brilliant multi-line vacuum fluorescent display. It has the capability of displaying the Time of Year (TOY) as DDD: HH:MM:SS in big bold and bright digits. Or users can display different status of the XLi system and its components with a push of a button. The intensity of the display is controlled by the XLi operating system via user's interface.
14) Is the XLi easy to use?
Out of the box you can plug in the XLi power cord and its up and running with default settings. Its sophisticated operating system takes care of the complex task of controlling the numerous tasks of boot-up. With GPS antenna, the XLi starts to receiver precise data and outputs codes without user intervention. Users will need to change different setup to take advantage of endless features that the unit has.
15) What new features does the XLi have?
The GPS receiver is an option to the XLi allowing the system to operate as a Time Code Unit (TCU) for all the Time Codes supported; please consult datasheet for the latest Time Codes. With GPS, the system is a precision GPS time source for all the various functions and codes needed. The XLi has the industry's first standard network port for remote control and monitoring with multi-layer password protection, SNMP, Telnet, FTP and DHCP. The automatic options recognition software enables for "plug and play" which has the advantage of field upgradeability. And with flash memory, the XLi software can be upgraded remotely using FTP and the network port. XLi has a high-tech looking multi-line vacuum fluorescent display. It has the capability of displaying different status of the system, or the Time of Year (TOY) as DDD: HH:MM:SS in big bold and bright digits. Finally, the XLi had all new components ensuring its viability into the next decade.
16) What does modularity mean?
It means that each hardware option is a module that can be plugged in to the system to add more capability of the XLi system. With each added option the XLi becomes capable of more features and can serve more functions. However, adding the hardware requires software recognition, so the software controlling the system is also modular. So, when an option is plugged-in, the XLi operating system recognizes it and launches the software module to operate that hardware option. This is a great feature that enables customers to buy options after they have purchased the XLi system. They can plug them in, power up the XLi, and the system will automatically add the new option to its configuration and launch its corresponding software module, in effect, modularity is a complete "Plug and Play" feature in the XLi.
17) Is the XLi an upgraded XL-DC?
NO, XLi is not an upgraded XL-DC. The XLi system is a completely new design with a new microcontroller platform, a new operating system and all new components. However, the XLi has leveraged the modular style of the XL-DC into its core, which leverages many of the XL-DC plug-in card capabilities. In essence, XLi maintained the bloodline of the legendary XL-DC with all the modern technology innovations and advances incorporated.
18) When will the XL-DC be obsoleted?
Symmetricom introduction of the XLi indicates an orderly transition to a new technology, which will drive the conversion from the XL-DC to the XLi platform. But the XL-DC will be the only option for many requirements, and will play a role in our product line until we have replaced the majority of its capability in the XLi. Currently, we don't foresee the obsolescence of the XL-DC product line.
19) Can the XLi be used to replace an existing XL-DC without any changes?
The functionality of the XLi system is the same as the XL-DC. So, a same configuration XLi will produce the same signals as that of an XL-DC. However, any software that users wrote for the XL-DC is not 100% backward compatible, and may need to be changed. This is because XLi has many new added features and some of the commands had to be changes. Please consult with Symmetricom for help to convert your XL-DC application to the powerful XLi.
20) What are the benefits of upgrading my XL-DC with the XLi?
The XLi has the industry's first standard network port for remote control and monitoring with multi-layer password protection, SNMP, Telnet, FTP and DHCP. The automatic options recognition software enables for "plug and play" which has the advantage of field upgradeability. And with flash memory, the XLi software can be upgraded remotely using FTP and the network port. XLi has a brilliant multi-line vacuum fluorescent display. It has the capability of displaying different status of the system, or the Time of Year (TOY) as DDD: HH:MM:SS in big bold and bright digits. And without the GPS receiver, the XLi system operates as a Time Code Unit (TCU) for all the Time Codes supported, please consult datasheet for the latest Time Codes. Finally, the XLi had all new components ensuring its viability into the next decade.
21) Can I use my existing XL-DC option cards in the new XLi? If so, which ones?
Because of the added features and the new XLi platform, Symmetricom does not recommend users to plug XL-DC cards in the XLi system. This includes all "special" designs for XL-DC. Please consult Symmetricom before attempting to use any XL-DC card in the XLi.
22) How do I communicate with the XLi
Users can communicate with the XLi by sending different "F" commands to the system to control its different functions and monitors. These commands can be sent to the system via three different interfaces. Firs by using the front panel keypad and display, second via the RS-232/422 serial interface with a computer, and finally, from anywhere in the world through with an IP interface via the standard Ethernet network port onboard the XLi. Future improvements and advantages is what makes the XLi the best timing system you'll ever get, just keep watching out for latest updates and added feature to the XLi.
23) How can I upgrade the software of the XLi?
This is the simplest part of owning an XLi. The combination of the network port and flash memory makes remote software upgrades an easy and quick task. You can wither download the new firmware from the Symmetricom.com website, or obtain it from Symmetricom customer support on CD. Setup your workstation as the FTP server, and upload the new firmware into the XLi using F100 command, via either a Telnet session or RS-232 port. Please refer to the XLi user manual for complete description of this operation. Finally, reboot the XLi, and viola! You got the latest operating software working.
24) How many options can I add?
Currently, the XLi has nine plug-in options and five non-plug in option, all listed below. Symmetricom is always adding more options to the system, please consult the latest online datasheet for more up-to-date list of supported options. And of course, we can custom design any "Special" requirement.
Non- plug-in options:
OCXO
High stability 10Mhz OCXO
Rb. Osco. 5x10-11
High Stability Rb. Osco. 1x10-11
NTS on Standard Ethernet Network Port
Plug-in Options
GPS timing engine
1, 5, 10 MHz Sinewave
1,5,10 MPPS Output
Telecom Interface - T1
Telecom Interface - E1
Multicode 4 AM outputs
1,5,10 MHz x 4 LPN
Frequency Synthesizer N.8
DC power cards (±12 ±24 ±48 V)
25) Can I add redundant options?
All options for the XLi are redundant, including AC and DC power supplies and the GPS receiver option. Dual redundant GPS receiver function in a master-slave configuration set up by the XLi microcontroller, and the power supplies will switch automatically upon failure detection of the master supply. All redundancy is designed for continuous uptime.
26) Can I add redundant GPS receivers?
Yes! Dual redundant GPS receiver is a big feature of model XLi. Both receivers plug into the back of the unit, and function in master-slave configuration controlled by the microcontroller on the XLi. The switch from primary to secondary, and vise versa, takes place with no loss of lock, and designed to eliminate single point of failure and maintain continues uptime.
27) Can I add redundant power supplies?
Up to two power supplies can be added to the XLi system. A combination of AC and DC supplies can be used, and switch over s done automatically to preserve the system in a failure incident. The secondary power supply will take an additional two slots in the 1U chassis, leaving two slots for options. However, there is a reserved slot for the additional power supply in the 2U chassis, leaving all 10 slots available for options.
28) Does the redundancy include the oscillators?
No. The XLi system was not designed for redundant oscillator. Symmetricom has other Timing signal distribution systems that support redundant oscillators; please consult with Symmetricom Sales Representative from more information.
29) What different oscillators can I add to the unit?
In addition to the standard TCVCXO, the XLi can upgrade to the following oscillators:
OCXO
High stability 10Mhz OCXO
Rb. Osco. 5x10-11
Rb. Osco. 1x10-11
30) Are the any options hot swappable?
No, XLi system is not designed for hot swappable options, and the options' architecture does not support the hot swappable operation. Symmetricom manufactures many products with hot swappable capabilities; please consult with Symmetricom sales representative for more information.
31) Can I have "special" requirement designed in the XLi?
Yes. Many of timing application requirements are special, and the XLi was design to accommodate specials as a plug-in option. This requires no hardware alteration to the main system, and minimum modification to the software, resulting in a fast turnaround and inexpensive solutions to very custom-oriented tasks.
32) My XLi is running but there is no PPS or IRIG out.
If the XLi is not locked to the source there is not 1PPS or IRIG code information. The XLi must be locked to a reference to have these codes produced.
33) What display modes can I have?
There are two main display modes to the vacuum fluorescent display. First, the Time of Year mode, where it displays DDD: HH:MM:SS on one line in big bold numbers. And the second display mode is a two-line interaction mode to display status and command responses
34) How much does the XLi weigh?
The 1U chassis (1.75") weighs 7 to 9 LB depending on options.
The 2U chassis (3.5 ") weighs 8 to 13 LB depending on options.
Time Code Unit (TCU)
1) How does the XLi work as Time Code Unit?
Without the GPS receiver, the XLi has capabilities to generate codes of IRIG A, B, NASA36. The system can synchronize to IRIG A, B or NASA36 in addition to 10Mhz, so in essence it is a generator and a synchronized generator for all the Time Codes supported, please consult datasheet for the latest Time Codes in the XLi. Also, the XLi is capable of having "special" time code requirements as a plug-in option to interact with its standard capabilities.
2) Can it operate as time code and GPS receiver simultaneously?
Yes. The XLi system, through any of its three interfaces, can be programmed to assign the GPS receiver and the Code In input to either primary or secondary reference source. Of course, only one of them will be primary and the other will be the secondary reference source. When the XLi system is using the Code In input as primary reference source, it can function as a TCU to either generate codes or synchronized to input codes as a SyncGen. Please consult datasheet for the latest Time Codes supported in the XLi
3) Can I integrate a "special" TCU requirement with the XLi?
Through its modularity, the XLi can accept any "special" TCU requirement as a plug-in option in its slots, or it can be a simple software module addition to output certain codes from its standard outputs.
4) Can the XLi operate as a countdown generator and what codes will it support?
Yes it can, the standard XLi supports IRIG A, B and NASA 36. With the Multicode options, the XLi can support additional IRIG A, B, E, G, H, XR3/2137 and NASA 36; other option cards can support CS3 synchronization.
5) Which time code products does the XLi replace from the Symmetricom line?
XLi replaces all the 800 series and 900 series Time Code Units for capabilities to SyncGen to IRIG A, B or NASA36 in addition to 10Mhz. The Multicode option can generate IRIG A, B, E, G, H, XR3/2137 and NASA 36; other option cards can support CS3 synchronization. Symmetricom offers other TCU products that extend the breadth of our offering in the Time Code application area, please consult Symmetricom Sales Representative for more information.
6) What codes are available in the XLi standard and optionally?
Standard codes on XLi base are IRIG A, B and NASA 36. With the Multicode options, the XLi can support IRIG A, B, E, G, H, XR3/2137 and NASA 36. Other special option cards can support CS3 synchronization. We are adding more standard codes and optional ones. Please consult the online XLi datasheet for the latest list.
7) What are the advantages of the XLi over the 800 and 900 series?
This is a completely new and modern design with new components that will last into the next decade. Modularity makes it easy to configure and design into your existing setup. It is very easy to communicate with and control, and with the standard network port, it is very convenient to have and control and monitoring becomes much easier and convenient; finally, XLi supports redundancy in power supply for higher uptime assurance.
8) What are the advantage of 800/900 series TCU over XLi
These units have long history and accrued a long list of options. The XLi does not have the breadth of offering as the 800 and 900 series TCU. However, we are quickly adding new Time Code options to the XLi portfolio, please consult the online datasheet for the latest list of options available.
9) Is fault sense and switching available for multiple time code inputs?
No. Currently, single Time Code input is provided for a reference source. XLi is slated to have capability for multiple Time Code inputs, please consult Symmetricom Sales Representative for more information.
10) What time codes can be used as a sync source for NTP?
The XLi can source NTP without GPS and sync to, IRIG A, B and NASA 36 in addition to 1Mhz, 5Mhz, 10Mhz.
11) Can I sync to NTP and generate time code 1pps,rate, frequency etc?
No. We don't provide NTP input sync due to its degraded accuracy. Synchronizing to NTP will be supported in other Symmetricom products, please consult Symmetricom Sales Representative for more information.
1) Is the network port an option?
No. The Ethernet network port is a standard feature on the XLi and is part of its basic configuration.
2) What functionality can I get from the network port? And what are the benefits?
Users can remotely control and monitor the XLi through the network port. With telnet, users can send all commands the unit to control it functionality and interrogate its status. With SNMP, users can observe the whole system and set traps for perfect monitoring. Remote software upgrades is a breeze with FTP. In general, remote diagnostics of the system can be done by your service technician or by Symmetricom service personnel. Of course, the network port is protected by double password requirements and other added security features.
3) What security does the network port have? And what are the benefits?
Two levels of password protection to access the network port: one for user and one for operator. The telnet capabilities of the system can be turned off to seal the unit.
4) Does the XLi support SNMP protocol?
Yes it does, currently, XLi supports SNMP version 2. All future improvements and added feature to the SNMP interface can be updated remotely via the network port, so any current XLi in service can take advantage of future improvements. SNMP for the XLi can be turned off if the users wished to do so.
5) What kind of SNMP functionality is available?
Full control of the units and complete monitoring and alarming functions, including set and get and traps.
6) How can the network port serve time like NTS?
The optional Network Time Server (NTS) software can be added to the XLi system to add NTP capabilities to the port. This will make the port source time in addition to its basic functionalities of control and monitoring.
7) Can I enter commands to the unit through the network port?
Yes, the XLi is completely controllable remotely through the network port, in the same way as the front keypad and RS-232/422. All "F" commands and status monitoring can be done remotely though the network port.
8) Can I get NTP without GPS?
Yes you can. The XLi has capability to synchronized to many different sources in the absence of GPS receiver, through its auxiliary sync reference, the XLi can sync to 1Mhz, 5Mhz, 10Mhz; and via Time Code in, it will sync to IRIG A, B and NASA 36. And consequently the NTS can source the time based on the accuracy of the input code used.
9) What references can be used as a sync source for NTP?
The XLi can source NTP without GPS and sync to 1Mhz, 5Mhz, 10Mhz, IRIG A, B and NASA 36.
Antenna and Cable
1) Will my XL-DC antenna work with the XLi system
No. The XLi system uses a 12V antenna system that is in incompatible with the XL-DC antenna. The 12V antenna has the advantage of preserving the integrity of the satellite signal by curtailing the proportion the DC and the noise signals compared to the main.
2) Will my XL-DC Down/Up converter work with the XLi
Yes. The Down/Up converter for the XL-DC works with the XLi, but please change the antenna since the XLi antenna is 12V antenna versus the XLi is only 5V antenna.
3) Are the antenna and cable shipped standard with the XLi?
No. The antenna and cable are standard with the GPS receiver option (PN 86-8013) for the XLi. If the XLi system is equipped with the GPS receiver option, then the antenna and 50ft RG-59 cable is shipped with the system.
4) What is the standard cable length included with the GPS receiver XLi system?
Standard with the XLi GPS receiver system are the L1 antenna and 50ft RG-59 cable. Different length cables are available upon request. The maximum length allowed directly with the GPS receiver is 150ft; any length above 150ft requires a preamplifier (PN 150-200)
5) What is the maximum length supported by the GPS receiver without preamplifier?
The maximum length allowed directly with the GPS receiver is 150ft; any length above 150ft requires a preamplifier (PN 150-200)
6) From which length of cable is the preamplifier required?
Any length above 150ft requires preamplifier (PN 150-200); Maximum length with preamplifier is 300 ft. Any length over 300 ft requires the use of an Up/Down converter (PN 142-6150-xxx) where xxx = cable length.
7) From which length of cable RG 59 is the Down/Up converter required?
Any length above 300ft requires Down/Up converter, the converters are specified for the cable length, so the PN 142-6150-xxx where xxx-cable length. Please note that the lengths are increased in increments of 250ft with maximum of 1500ft. Anything beyond 1500ft requires fiber optics.
8) What if I want more than 1500 ft cable?
Any cable length over 1500ft requires fiber optics; please contact Symmetricom sales representatives for more information.
Service and Support
1) How does XLi improve service and support?
Through the network port, remote diagnostics can give an instantaneous health status of the unit. Your service technician or Symmetricom service personnel (with password permission) can telnet the unit and find out what's wrong with it. In case of a defect module, customers don't have to send the whole unit back to Symmetricom for repairs, a simple exchange of the defective module (including CPU card) can solve the problem. You will be up and running in a very short time. This is possible because of the modular design of the system.
2) Can Symmetricom access my XLi remotely?
Yes, and only if the owner of the XLi system provided the password to access the unit. With the security password supplied by the customer, Symmetricom personnel can access the unit for diagnostics, or software upgrades.
3) Do I need to ship my XLi to Symmetricom for service and upgrades?
The whole unit needs not to be sent back to Symmetricom for repairs, a simple exchange of the defective module (including CPU card) can solve the problem. Customers will be up and running in a very short time. This is possible because of the modular design of the system.
4) What do I do when the CPU is defective?
Just slide the bad CPU card out and simply exchange the defective CPU module with the new one. You will be up and running in a very short time. This is possible because of the modular design of the system.
5) What diagnostic tools available for the XLi?
Operator of the XLi has status monitoring LED's and display on the unit, including, Lock indicator, power status and multi-line display for various messages. Remotely via the standard network port, users can use the powerful SNMP for control and status monitoring. Other software allow for control and monitoring through the RS232/422.