Align the local clock to the radio's GPS timebase¶
Use this procedure to synchronize your PC's clock to the FLEX-8600's GPS-disciplined precision timebase for sample-accurate timestamping across your station.
Before you start¶
- Ensure the radio is connected to AetherSDR.
- Verify the radio has GPS/GNSS lock (see Check the radio's GPS/GNSS lock status).
Steps¶
- Open the Applet panel and click the AetherClock tile.
- Confirm the GNSS lock indicator shows "Locked".
- Note the Clock drift value in nanoseconds — this is the current offset between the radio's GPS clock and your PC's clock.
- Click Align Clock.
AetherSDR adjusts your local system clock to match the radio's GPS timebase. The Clock drift indicator should reset to near zero.
What each control does¶
| Control | Purpose |
|---|---|
| GNSS lock indicator | Shows the radio's GPS/GNSS lock status: Locked, Unlocked, or Acquiring. |
| Clock drift | Displays measured drift between the radio's GPS clock and your PC's clock in nanoseconds. |
| Align Clock | Aligns the local PC clock to the radio's GPS-disciplined reference. |
Tips¶
- The radio must have GNSS lock before alignment will be accurate. If the indicator shows "Unlocked" or "Acquiring", wait until it shows "Locked".
- After alignment, the Clock drift value should remain near zero if the radio maintains lock.
Troubleshooting¶
- GNSS lock indicator shows "Unlocked" — The radio's GPS receiver has no valid time fix. Ensure the radio has a clear view of the sky or sufficient satellite reception.
- Clock drift remains high after clicking Align Clock — Your system may require root/administrator privileges to change the system clock. On Linux, ensure your user has permission or run AetherSDR with the
CAP_SYS_TIMEcapability.