Atomic Travel Clocks: Keeping Perfect Time

An atomic clock provides the most accurate measurement of time. It measures the oscillations of Cesium atoms. There are two main atomic clocks; one in Fort Collins, Colorado and one in Paris, France. These clocks synchronize with 200 atomic clocks across the globe to arrive at what is known as International Atomic Time. To learn more about how these atomic clocks work, you can review a brief article on how they function or get a bit more detail in this Softpedia article.

Consumers of course don't go out and buy the complex equipment required for a true atomic clock. What they do instead, is purchase what is more accurately called a radio controlled clock. These products have a receiver which can pick up a synchronization signal that is broadcast from an atomic clock lab. In the US, that means a signal from radio station WWVB in Boulder, Colorado.

A radio controlled clock, or atomic travel clock, only costs a few dollars more than a reqular quartz clock. They have the advantage of automatically synchronizing the time with a true atomic clock for improved accuracy, without the consumer having to do anything.

In order for the clock to receive the synchronization signal, it's receiver must be able to pick up the frequencies transmitted by the radio station. Thus, an "atomic travel clock" purchased in the US should operate while traveling domestically because it has a compatible receiver. However, if it is to operate while traveling internationally, it must be capable of receiving the frequencies being transmitted in that area. Such a clock is often called a "global atomic travel clock". Before making a purchase, it can still be important however to verify in which regions of the world the clock will be able to receive the signal. For instance, some clocks with the global designation may work in the US and Europe, but not in Japan or China.

Of course if you travel with one of these devices, it's important to understand that the clock will still function anywhere. The only thing it won't be able to do, is to automatically synchronize time due to its inability to pick up the necessary radio signal.

There are some things which can also interfere with the reception of the synchronization radio signal. Metal is the primary barrier, thus these clocks won't synchronize if placed within a metal building.

Of course, if your clock is defective it should be returned. However, there are some common problems that occur which are easily remedied. Manufacturers can help handle any technical issues but many common problems are addressed on this page by the National Institute on Standards and Technology. It addresses basic problems with reception/inability to sychronize.

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