SiTime enhances AI data centre performance and utilisation

TimeFabric, combined with SiTime’s oscillators and clocks, delivers up to 9X more accurate time synchronization than quartz-based solutions, enabling higher system performance and utilization in AI data centers. The TimeFabric software suite consists of two modules: IEEE 1588 standards-compliant synchronization software, as well as proprietary technology to extend critical holdover performance to 24 hours.

“At SiTime, we help our customers resolve their complex timing problems for the world’s most advanced technologies,” said Rajesh Vashist, chairman and CEO of SiTime. “As the only semiconductor company exclusively focused on Precision Timing, we deliver a comprehensive portfolio of solutions—including our innovative oscillators, clocks, and now, TimeFabric software. By partnering with SiTime, customers can accelerate their time to market, enhance product reliability, and extend product lifecycles. With the introduction of TimeFabric, SiTime further strengthens its role as an indispensable partner, delivering enduring value to our customers and driving our leadership in the timing industry.”

In addition to AI data center applications such as smart network interface cards (SmartNIC), switches, routers and accelerators, TimeFabric can also be used in 5G infrastructure, including remote radio units and base stations, fixed wireless access (FWA) equipment and core network equipment. 

The TimeFabric software suite has two software modules: 

• IEEE 1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP) Standards-compliant Servo and Stack

 SiTime’s proprietary servo and software stack for IEEE 1588 precision time protocol (PTP) with sub-nanosecond synchronization accuracy delivers tighter control and greater timing stability over generic IEEE 1588 solutions, even in the most demanding network systems. Network architects gain flexibility in network traffic scheduling and load balancing, which will result in higher utilization.

• Holdover Extension Software 

 TimeFabric’s proprietary holdover extension software can be used to enhance the functionality of SiTime’s precision devices with in-field software upgrades. The holdover extension software delivers up to 24 hours of holdover, essential to mobile and network infrastructure reliability – a stringent requirement for critical infrastructure. This ensures full operation in the event of GNSS outages or network clock failures. 

Additional features include:

• IEEE 1588-2019 compliant - meets ITU-T G.8273.2 Class D:

 Full timeTransmitter and timeReceiver capability.

 Hardware timestamping support.

 Device drivers for SiTime network synchronizers.

 IEEE 1588 management support. 

• 2X longer holdover:

 Up to 24 hours holdover with SiT5811, SiT5812 or SiT7101.