The main advantage of this 1-way time code system is the combination of high reliability and cost-effectiveness as well as the possibility to mix older impulse driven clocks with intelligent clocks in the same installation. The system is open for connection of clocks from various suppliers, provided use of DCF-format.

This system is driven by a serial time code signal sent by a Master, which can be a Master Clock, a Master Clock Programmer or a Time Central. The serial signal has the same format as the one sent by the DCF-77 transmitter. This serial time code contains information about year, month, day, hours and minutes.

Each clock of a time code system is connected to a 2-wire bus, which combines 24VDC voltage feeding and the serial time code. This combination of voltage and time code on the same pair of wires makes both cable laying and installation easier and less costly.

This system is used in applications where equipment from many suppliers is installed, e.g. railway stations, airports and large administrative buildings.

Westerstrand equipment for this system offers very high control over time displayed in connected clocks. Each movement in receiving clocks has its own microprocessor to receive time code, detecting the position of the hands using magnets and hall sensors, and thereafter automatically setting the hands to correct time. Digital clocks are automatically set to correct time within 2 minutes after connection.

In case of power failure the clocks are temporarily stopped. When power returns the hands (analogue clocks) will automatically, and rapidly, be set to 12-position and thereafter to correct time. Digital clocks are automatically set to correct time within 2 minutes when power has returned.