Tower Clock Controllers

Although some synchronous motor-powered clocks can keep accurate time without a tower clock controller, power outages and daylight saving adjustments will require human intervention. Using manual switches, the tower clock can be adjusted to the correct time.

Clock tower controllers, also known as master clocks, maintain the correct time during power interruptions to maintain accurate time on one or more clocks. Outsiders rely on large tower clocks to get them through the day in parks and other public areas. If you want to ensure that your clock displays the right time, a clock controller from National Time & Signal can help.

National Time & Signal is a trusted tower clock part manufacturer and distributor. We make high-quality clock parts that will stand the test of time. Learn more about how our tower clock controllers stand out and can help you maintain a precise time on your clock system.

What Are Clock Controllers?

Clock controllers are the time-controlling mechanism behind the clock. Each clock controller can maintain one or multiple clocks while keeping them all at the exact same time. Most clock controllers account automatically for power failure and daylight saving time changes.

Master clock controllers are necessary for keeping multiple clocks synchronous. If you have a system of clocks in one area, using a master controller for your tower clocks will keep them synchronized.

How Do Clock Controllers Work?

Clock controllers are tasked with keeping accurate time. Some of these master clocks utilize an internal quartz crystal oscillator frequency to keep track of the time of day. However, crystal oscillations are usually not precise enough and can gain or lose a second or more per day. These seconds add up and can cause a clock to be off by more than six minutes a year! The United States, and other nations, regulate the power feeding homes and businesses to a frequency of 60Hz or 50Hz. National Time and Signal clock controllers can use this accurate power-line frequency to keep time.

During power outages, clock controllers use the quartz crystal oscillator that is powered by a 10-year lithium battery to keep time.

Some clock controllers or master clocks can be equipped with a GPS antenna. The Global Positional System can keep track of position as well as an accurate time source. The time received by the antenna is used by the tower clock controller to keep time. Another time source commonly utilized is a computer network connection if this is available. The computer network can also be a source of more accurate time. Both of these time base options are in line with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) time.

Clock controllers can also monitor optional GPS interfaces. Our master clocks are an economical choice to manage multiple clocks at once, as well as your computer programs, GPS devices and networks.

Our Unique Tower Clock Controller Systems

Our collection of advanced clock controllers offer the choice of crystal or power-line frequency time base standards. We offer options such as GPS time, LAN, WAN and more.

Our clock controllers and related products include:

  • MC100 Master Clock: This master clock controller can reach from four up to 12 circuits.
  • MC100 - Rack Mount: This is the rack-mount version of the MC100. It comes with four output circuits standard and can be expanded to eight.
  • MC100 Weather Proof: This model is the weatherproof version of the MC100.
  • MC3 Master Clock: This master clock works with our Architectural Clock product line to control minute impulse or synchronous clocks.
  • GPS Antenna: The GPS antenna keeps your clocks in line with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) time.
  • Manual Reset Switches: These manual control switches operate up to four clocks.

Reach out to a specialist at National Time & Signal for technical information.

Learn More From National Time & Signal

National Time & Signal is an industry leader in stock and custom clock parts, including high-quality tower clock and master controllers. We work with large outdoor clocks, master clock systems and more. With decades of experience, we can help you analyze and understand your needs, then find the right part for your clock.

To learn more information about our products, contact us online to speak with a representative. We will help you find the perfect fit for your tower clock.