> However the world has moved to using GPS to globally > distribute accurate time. It is just FARRRRR more reliable. Is it cheaper? "TECHNICALLY CHEAPER?" - No way. GPS requires a specialized reciever, DSP, a space-satellite launch capability, a bunch of satellites in orbit, and so on. State-of-the-art stuff, for some definition. Actually cheaper? Perhaps soon, anyway. You want GPS to accomplish a lot of things, and accurate time comes along for free. GPS is a consumer item and receivers are mass produced. Less successful vendors have their inventories appear on surplus markets. I was a bit shocked when someone added code to cisco routers to interface to GPS receivers JUST so that the router could be an accurate time source for NTP ("Network Time Protocol.") NTP might be something to look into too. Assuming an internet connection, you can get synchronized time to within well less than typical network delays, using "magic." You can also consider dialing 1-800-POPCORN or equivilent, periodically, via cellphone technology... BillW -- http://www.piclist.com hint: To leave the PICList mailto:piclist-unsubscribe-request@mitvma.mit.edu