Why your transport location needs a time server
Time precision is important to everyone in a transport hub. As a traveller, you want to make sure you don’t miss your plane or train. As a transport operator, you need your passengers to be confident that the time displayed is correct, and be able to keep your services running on time.
To do this, all devices on your IT network must receive a single time reference that is constantly available, accurate and reliable. A time server will help; here we examine exactly how.
Display accurate, identical time on all your equipment
When connected to a computer network, clocks (and other equipment) synchronise with the information that a time server distributes via NTP (Network Time Protocol). This guarantees that all clocks reliably and continuously display the correct time, no matter where they are located.
Easy to install and commission, these NTP clocks are connected to the transport hub’s network cabling. Their built-in supervision function, installed via SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), means they can report any failure. This ensures their continuous operation and reduces your maintenance costs.
Ensure smooth operation across all areas
By using a time server, you can deliver an exact, single time across all terminals or platforms. This then allows the correct, identical time to be broadcast across key areas like check-in counters, customs areas and departure lounges. The time updates automatically during summer and winter time changes, making the task of displaying accurate time more efficient, and ensuring accuracy.
A time server also facilitates the synchronisation of operational systems like passenger information, ticketing and check-in systems.
Boost security and accurately timestamp events
Network security is critical for all industries and businesses. It’s particularly important in the transport sector where passenger information and safety controls could operate on the same network.
Using a public time server to receive an external NTP time signal could create an easily exploitable vulnerability. A time server helps to minimise the risk of cyberattacks, thanks to its highly secure multi-constellation antenna with anti-spoofing and jamming functions.
Accurate timestamping of events and system anomalies is also possible. This is especially important for security and video surveillance systems in transport hubs, where there is a risk of a terrorist incident.
Need help with choosing your time server?
Bodet Time's Netsilon Time Servers allow you to synchronise clocks and additional devices over a network using Network Time Protocol (NTP), so they continuously display highly accurate time. They are simple to configure, thanks to a user-friendly, secure web interface available in French, English, Spanish and German.
