Professional Broadcast and Playout Timing

Broadcast playout centers, OB vans and radio/TV transmitters genlock to a 10 MHz or black-burst reference. A drifting reference introduces lip-sync error and frame misalignment. Playout chains prefer either a GNSS-disciplined oscillator (locked to satellite) or a rubidium master reference for studios that cannot lose signal. Outside-broadcast vans need rugged, wide-temperature modules that survive transit and outdoor operation.

Test & Measurement and Calibration Labs

Signal generators, spectrum analyzers, frequency counters and phase-noise analyzers all need a reference oscillator quieter than the device under test. A calibration lab's master clock is usually an OCXO (short-term) backed by rubidium or GPSDO (long-term). The same reference family feeds distribution amplifiers and 10 MHz cabinets across the lab.

Recommended KCCS Broadcast & T&M Models

Use CaseRecommended KCCSKey Spec
Playout master referenceKDO27 GPSDO10 MHz sine, ±1.5 μs/24h holdover
Studio / lab rack referenceKRA50 Rubidium10 MHz sine, aging ≤1.5E-12/day
OB van / outdoor broadcastKOT27 / KOR seriesrugged, -40~+85°C, ±0.1 ppb
Spectrum analyzer / signal gen referenceKONA50 / KONS450-170 dBc/Hz, ADEV 8E-14
Phase-noise / metrology labKPLOSMA45 PLO±0.2 ppb, SMA connector, -160 dBc/Hz

Frequently Asked Questions

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