Allied Telesis AT-FL-X230-PTP – IEEE 1588v2 PTP License for X230 Switches

Overview

The Allied Telesis AT-FL-X230-PTP is a software license that enables IEEE 1588v2 Precision Time Protocol (PTP) functionality on AT-X230 series managed switches. Once activated, the license allows sub-microsecond clock synchronization across the network, which is required in environments where timing accuracy is critical. This is a software-only deliverable — no additional hardware is needed beyond a compatible X230 switch. Organizations operating industrial automation, broadcast, or financial trading networks should evaluate this license when deploying X230 switches in timing-sensitive roles.

Description

IEEE 1588v2 defines the Precision Time Protocol standard used to synchronize clocks in networked systems to sub-microsecond accuracy. The AT-FL-X230-PTP license unlocks this capability on compatible Allied Telesis AT-X230 series switches, converting them from standard managed switches into PTP-capable boundary or transparent clock nodes.

Without this license, X230 switches operate with standard NTP-level timing (millisecond accuracy). With PTP enabled, the same switches can participate in a grandmaster-to-slave clock hierarchy, distributing precise time across all connected equipment. This distinction is critical in environments governed by IEC 61850 for power automation, SMPTE ST 2059 for broadcast, or similar timing standards.

The license is delivered as a software activation key tied to the target switch. Activation is performed through the AlliedWare Plus command-line interface or web GUI. No firmware upgrade is required beyond what is already supported on the X230 platform. License keys are non-transferable between units.

This product is sold and supported by Creation Networks. For pre-sales questions or deployment guidance, visit creationnetworks.net.

Key Features

• IEEE 1588v2 PTP Support: Activates full Precision Time Protocol compliance on AT-X230 series switches, enabling sub-microsecond synchronization without additional hardware.
• Boundary and Transparent Clock Modes: Supports both boundary clock and transparent clock operation, providing flexibility in how the switch participates in a PTP domain hierarchy.
• Software License Delivery: Delivered as an activation key for the AlliedWare Plus operating system — no hardware swap, no downtime for installation beyond a brief configuration change.
• Standards-Based Interoperability: Complies with IEEE 1588-2008 (v2), ensuring compatibility with other PTP-capable devices from any vendor participating in the same timing domain.
• X230 Platform Integration: Designed specifically for the AT-X230 switch family, ensuring tested and supported operation without voiding existing hardware support agreements.
• Permanent Activation: License is permanently associated with the target switch unit — no annual renewal required after initial purchase.

Typical Applications

• Industrial Automation: Synchronizing PLCs, motion controllers, and SCADA systems in manufacturing environments where IEC 61850 or PROFINET timing requirements apply.
• Broadcast Production Networks: Providing SMPTE ST 2059 / PTP grandmaster distribution to cameras, encoders, and production switchers in live broadcast facilities.
• Power Utility Substations: Meeting IEC 61850-9-2 timing requirements for protective relay coordination and fault recording in electrical substation networks.
• Financial Trading Infrastructure: Satisfying MiFID II and similar regulatory requirements for timestamping trade execution events with microsecond-level accuracy.
• Telecommunications Transport: Supporting SyncE and PTP hybrid deployments in carrier access networks where frequency and phase synchronization are both required.

Technical Specifications

FAQ