Trimble Outdoors Thunderbolt 64057 00 Eng Users Manual E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

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USER GUIDE

Trimble® ThunderBolt® E
GPS Disciplined Clock

USER GUIDE

Trimble® ThunderBolt® E
GPS Disciplined Clock

Version 1.0
Revision B
Part Number 64057-00-ENG
May 2008

Corporate Office
Trimble Navigation Limited
Advanced Devices Group
935 Stewart Drive
Sunnyvale, CA 94085
USA
+1-800-787-4225 (toll free in USA)
+1-408-481-7741
timing@trimble.com
www.trimble.com
Legal Notices
Copyright and Trademarks
© 1998 - 2008, Trimble Navigation Limited.Trimble, the Globe & Triangle
logo, and ThunderBolt are trademarks of Trimble Navigation Limited,
registered in the United States and in other countries. Bullet and The
right one logo are trademarks of Trimble Navigation Limited.
Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks
of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners
Release Notice
This is the May 2008 release (Revision B) of the Trimble ThunderBolt E
GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide, part number 64057-00-ENG.
(Please see the website for updated part number information.)
Product Limited Warranty Information
For applicable product Limited Warranty information, please consult
your local Trimble authorized sales manager.
For applicable product Limited Warranty information, please refer to
Legal Notices in the Help for this product, or consult your local Trimble
authorized dealer.
LIMITED WARRANTY TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Product Limited Warranty
Subject to the following terms and conditions, Trimble Navigation
Limited (“Trimble”) warrants that for a period of one (1) year from date
of purchase this Trimble product (the “Product”) will substantially
conform to Trimble's publicly available specifications for the Product
and that the hardware and any storage media components of the
Product will be substantially free from defects in materials and
workmanship.
Product Software
Product software, whether built into hardware circuitry as firmware,
provided as a standalone computer software product, embedded in flash
memory, or stored on magnetic or other media, is licensed solely for use
with or as an integral part of the Product and is not sold. If accompanied
by a separate end user license agreement (“EULA”), use of any such
software will be subject to the terms of such end user license agreement
(including any differing limited warranty terms, exclusions, and
limitations), which shall control over the terms and conditions set forth
in this limited warranty.
Software Fixes
During the limited warranty period you will be entitled to receive such
Fixes to the Product software that Trimble releases and makes
commercially available and for which it does not charge separately,
subject to the procedures for delivery to purchasers of Trimble products
generally. If you have purchased the Product from an authorized Trimble
dealer rather than from Trimble directly, Trimble may, at its option,
forward the software Fix to the Trimble dealer for final distribution to
you. Minor Updates, Major Upgrades, new products, or substantially
new software releases, as identified by Trimble, are expressly excluded
from this update process and limited warranty. Receipt of software Fixes
or other enhancements shall not serve to extend the limited warranty
period.
For purposes of this warranty the following definitions shall apply:
(1) “Fix(es)” means an error correction or other update created to fix a
previous software version that does not substantially conform to its
Trimble specifications; (2) “Minor Update” occurs when enhancements
are made to current features in a software program; and (3) “Major
Upgrade” occurs when significant new features are added to software, or
when a new product containing new features replaces the further
development of a current product line. Trimble reserves the right to
determine, in its sole discretion, what constitutes a Fix, Minor Update,
or Major Upgrade.
Warranty Remedies
If the Trimble Product fails during the warranty period for reasons
covered by this limited warranty and you notify Trimble of such failure
during the warranty period, Trimble will repair OR replace the

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

nonconforming Product with new, equivalent to new, or reconditioned
parts or Product, OR refund the Product purchase price paid by you, at
Trimble’s option, upon your return of the Product in accordance with
Trimble's product return procedures then in effect.
How to Obtain Warranty Service
To obtain warranty service for the Product, please contact your local
Trimble authorized dealer. Alternatively, you may contact Trimble to
request warranty service at +1-408-481-6940 (24 hours a day) or e-mail
your request to trimble_support@trimble.com. Please be prepared to
provide:
– your name, address, and telephone numbers
– proof of purchase
– a description of the nonconforming Product including the model
number and serial number
– an explanation of the problem
The customer service representative may need additional information
from you depending on the nature of the problem.
Warranty Exclusions and Disclaimer
This Product limited warranty shall only apply in the event and to the
extent that (a) the Product is properly and correctly installed,
configured, interfaced, maintained, stored, and operated in accordance
with Trimble's applicable operator's manual and specifications, and; (b)
the Product is not modified or misused. This Product limited warranty
shall not apply to, and Trimble shall not be responsible for, defects or
performance problems resulting from (i) the combination or utilization
of the Product with hardware or software products, information, data,
systems, interfaces, or devices not made, supplied, or specified by
Trimble; (ii) the operation of the Product under any specification other
than, or in addition to, Trimble's standard specifications for its products;
(iii) the unauthorized installation, modification, or use of the Product;
(iv) damage caused by: accident, lightning or other electrical discharge,
fresh or salt water immersion or spray (outside of Product
specifications); or exposure to environmental conditions for which the
Product is not intended; (v) normal wear and tear on consumable parts
(e.g., batteries); or (vi) cosmetic damage. Trimble does not warrant or
guarantee the results obtained through the use of the Product, or that
software components will operate error free.
NOTICE REGARDING PRODUCTS EQUIPPED WITH
TECHNOLOGY CAPABLE OF TRACKING SATELLITE SIGNALS
FROM SATELLITE BASED AUGMENTATION SYSTEMS (SBAS)
(WAAS/EGNOS, AND MSAS), OMNISTAR, GPS, MODERNIZED GPS
OR GLONASS SATELLITES, OR FROM IALA BEACON SOURCES:
TRIMBLE IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE OPERATION OR
FAILURE OF OPERATION OF ANY SATELLITE BASED
POSITIONING SYSTEM OR THE AVAILABILITY OF ANY
SATELLITE BASED POSITIONING SIGNALS.
THE FOREGOING LIMITED WARRANTY TERMS STATE TRIMBLE’S
ENTIRE LIABILITY, AND YOUR EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES, RELATING
TO THE TRIMBLE PRODUCT. EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE EXPRESSLY
PROVIDED HEREIN, THE PRODUCT, AND ACCOMPANYING
DOCUMENTATION AND MATERIALS ARE PROVIDED “AS-IS” AND
WITHOUT EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, BY
EITHER TRIMBLE OR ANYONE WHO HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN ITS
CREATION, PRODUCTION, INSTALLATION, OR DISTRIBUTION,
INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
TITLE, AND NONINFRINGEMENT. THE STATED EXPRESS
WARRANTIES ARE IN LIEU OF ALL OBLIGATIONS OR LIABILITIES
ON THE PART OF TRIMBLE ARISING OUT OF, OR IN CONNECTION
WITH, ANY PRODUCT. BECAUSE SOME STATES AND JURISDICTIONS
DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON DURATION OR THE EXCLUSION
OF AN IMPLIED WARRANTY, THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT
APPLY OR FULLY APPLY TO YOU.
Limitation of Liability
TRIMBLE'S ENTIRE LIABILITY UNDER ANY PROVISION HEREIN
SHALL BE LIMITED TO THE AMOUNT PAID BY YOU FOR THE
PRODUCT. TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY
APPLICABLE LAW, IN NO EVENT SHALL TRIMBLE OR ITS SUPPLIERS
BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGE WHATSOEVER UNDER ANY
CIRCUMSTANCE OR LEGAL THEORY RELATING IN ANYWAY TO THE
PRODUCTS, SOFTWARE AND ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTATION
AND MATERIALS, (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES
FOR LOSS OF BUSINESS PROFITS, BUSINESS INTERRUPTION, LOSS
OF DATA, OR ANY OTHER PECUNIARY LOSS), REGARDLESS OF
WHETHER TRIMBLE HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF
ANY SUCH LOSS AND REGARDLESS OF THE COURSE OF DEALING
WHICH DEVELOPS OR HAS DEVELOPED BETWEEN YOU AND
TRIMBLE. BECAUSE SOME STATES AND JURISDICTIONS DO NOT

ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY FOR
CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, THE ABOVE
LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
PLEASE NOTE: THE ABOVE TRIMBLE LIMITED WARRANTY
PROVISIONS WILL NOT APPLY TO PRODUCTS PURCHASED IN
THOSE JURISDICTIONS (E.G., MEMBER STATES OF THE
EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AREA) IN WHICH PRODUCT
WARRANTIES ARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE LOCAL
TRIMBLE AUTHORIZED DEALER FROM WHOM THE PRODUCTS
ARE ACQUIRED. IN SUCH A CASE, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR
LOCAL TRIMBLE AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR APPLICABLE
WARRANTY INFORMATION.
Official Language
THE OFFICIAL LANGUAGE OF THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS IS
ENGLISH. IN THE EVENT OF A CONFLICT BETWEEN ENGLISH AND
OTHER LANGUAGE VERSIONS, THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE SHALL
CONTROL.
Notices
Class B Statement – Notice to Users. This equipment has been tested
and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant
to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communication.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined
by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to
correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
– Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that
to which the receiver is connected.
– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Changes and modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer
or registrant of this equipment can void your authority to operate this
equipment under Federal Communications Commission rules.

Declaration of Conformity

We, Trimble Navigation Limited,
935 Stewart Drive
PO Box 3642
Sunnyvale, CA 94088-3642
United States
+1-408-481-8000
declare under sole responsibility that the product:
ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock
complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired
operation.

Australia and New Zealand
This product conforms with the regulatory requirements of the
Australian Communications Authority (ACA) EMC framework,
thus satisfying the requirements for C-Tick Marking and sale
within Australia and New Zealand.
Europe
This product has been tested and found to comply with the
requirements for a Class B device pursuant to European
Council Directive 89/336/EEC on EMC, thereby satisfying the
requirements for CE Marking and sale within the European
Economic Area (EEA). Contains Infineon radio module ROK 104001.
These requirements are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a
residential or commercial environment.
Notice to Our European Union Customers
For product recycling instructions and more information, please go to
www.trimble.com/ev.shtml.
Recycling in Europe: To recycle Trimble WEEE (Waste
Electrical and Electronic Equipment, products that run on
electrical power.), Call +31 497 53 24 30, and ask for the
"WEEE Associate". Or, mail a request for recycling
instructions to:
Trimble Europe BV
c/o Menlo Worldwide Logistics
Meerheide 45
5521 DZ Eersel, NL
Restriction of Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in
Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS)
As of July 1, 2006, the Product is compliant in all material respects with
DIRECTIVE 2002/95/EC OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF
THE COUNCIL of 27 January 2003 on the restriction of the use of certain
hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS
Directive) and Amendment 2005/618/EC filed under C(2005) 3143, with
exemptions for lead in solder pursuant to Paragraph 7 of the Annex to
the RoHS Directive applied. The foregoing is limited to Product placed
on the market in the Member States of the European Union on or after 1
July 2006. Trimble has relied on representations made by its suppliers in
certifying this Product as RoHS compliant.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Safety Information
Warnings and Cautions
An absence of specific alerts does not mean that there are no safety risks involved.
Always follow the instructions that accompany a Warning or Caution. The information
they provide is intended to minimize the risk of personal injury and/or damage to the
equipment. In particular, observe safety instructions that are presented in the
following formats:

WARNING – A Warning alerts you to a likely risk of serious injury to your person and/or
damage to the equipment.

CAUTION – A Caution alerts you to a possible risk of damage to the equipment and/or
loss of data.

Operation and storage

WARNING – Operating or storing the ThunderBolt E GPS disciplined clock outside the
specified temperature range can damage it. For more information, see the product
specifications on the data sheet.

Routing any cable

CAUTION – Be careful not to damage the cable. Take care to avoid sharp bends or kinks in
the cable, hot surfaces (for example, exhaust manifolds or stacks), rotating or
reciprocating equipment, sharp or abrasive surfaces, door and window jambs, and
corrosive fluids or gases.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Safety Information

AC adaptor safety
An international adaptor kit is provided with the ThunderBolt E GPS disciplined clock.

WARNING – Using an incorrect AC adaptor can damage your product and may void your
warranty. To use AC adaptors safely:
– Use only the AC adaptor intended for the ThunderBolt E. Using any other AC adaptor
can damage your product and may void your warranty.
– Do not use the AC adaptor with any other product.
– Make certain that the input voltage on the adaptor matches the voltage and frequency
in your location.
– Make certain that the adaptor has prongs compatible with your outlets.
– AC adaptors are designed for indoor use only. Avoid using the AC adaptor in wet
outdoor areas.
– Unplug the AC adaptor from power when not in use.
– Do not short the output connector.
– There are no user-serviceable parts in this product.
– Should damage to the AC adaptor occur, replace it with a new Trimble AC adaptor.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Contents
Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Warnings and Cautions
Operation and storage .
Routing any cable . . . .
AC adaptor safety . . . .

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5
5
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6

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10
10
10
10
11
11
11
11
11

Setting up and Running the ThunderBolt E . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
System requirements. . . . . . . .
Hardware . . . . . . . . . . .
Computer. . . . . . . . . . .
System software. . . . . . .
Installing and using the software
Trimble GPS Monitor . . .
TSIP . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ThunderBolt E starter kit . . . . .
Setting up the ThunderBolt E . .

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Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hardware features . . . . . . . . . .
Interface protocols . . . . . . . . . .
Standard timing software features
Starter kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Use and care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Technical assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Your comments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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14
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15
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20
21

Hardware Integration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
ThunderBolt E system architecture.
ThunderBolt E module . . . . . . . .
Environmental specifications
Performance specifications .
Physical characteristics . . . .
Bullet antenna specifications . . . .
Physical characteristics . . . .
Environmental specifications
Antenna cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I/O connector pin-out . . . . . . . . .
Power supply and connector . . . . .

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27
27
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29
29

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Contents

Firmware Integration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Firmware configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Firmware upgrades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Firmware features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interface scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic output packets . . . . . . . . . . .
Customizing operations parameters. . . . .
Packets output at power-up . . . . . . . . . .
Command packets: User to ThunderBolt E
Report packets: ThunderBolt E to User . . .
Packet structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Packet descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Packet descriptions used in run mode. . . .
TSIP Superpackets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

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34
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37
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40
41
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64

CHAPTER

1
Introduction
In this chapter:
Q

Operation

Features

Starter kit

Use and care

Technical assistance

Your comments

Welcome to the Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS
Disciplined Clock User Guide. The user guide
describes how to install, set up, and use the
Trimble® ThunderBolt® E GPS disciplined clock
(“ThunderBolt E”).
The ThunderBolt E integrates the latest GPS
technology into a rugged, self-contained unit. It
provides an accurate one pulse-per-second
(1 PPS) and a stable 10 MHz frequency output
source for output to synchronize and time
broadband wireless, cellular base stations, Time
Difference of Arrival (TDOA) applications, and
many other Supervisory and Data Acquisition
(SCADA) applications.
For more information on GPS, go to
http://www.trimble.com/gps/index.shtml.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Introduction

Operation
The ThunderBolt E GPS disciplined clock provides time and frequency through a
12-channel GPS receiver and a high-quality ovenized quartz oscillator integrated onto
a single printed circuit board. Tightly integrating GPS into the clock design eliminates
the need for a separate GPS receiver. This results in better reliability, a smaller size, and
a cost advantage.
The board in the ThunderBolt E consists of one board with GPS and a 24 V power
supply regulator. This power supply regulator ensures clean, robust power to the GPS.
The board can support several different oscillators for applications having stringent
holdover requirements.
The ThunderBolt E is ready to use out of the box for most applications. When a
+24 VDC power source is applied, the ThunderBolt E will begin to track satellites—
four satellites are required to begin the self-survey process. At the same time the
oscillator will come up to operating temperature and stabilize, outputting the 1 PPS
and reference frequency.
To get the most from your time reference, you can customize the ThunderBolt E using
the Trimble binary interface, TSIP (Trimble Standard Interface Protocol). For more
information, see Appendix A, Trimble Standard Interface Protocol.

Features
Hardware features
•

A single printed circuit board containing
–

A quality ovenized oscillator

–

A 12-channel GPS receiver

–

Control circuitry

•

Easy integration with the Trimble Bullet™ antenna

•

Easy calibration for different cable lengths

•

Output
–

10 MHz reference signal output via BNC connector

–

1 PPS output with an Over-determined solution synchronized to GPS or
UTC time

Interface protocols
The ThunderBolt E uses the Trimble Standard Interface Protocol (TSIP). This is a
binary packet protocol that allows the system designer maximum configuration
control over the GPS receiver for optimum performance in timing applications. TSIP

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Introduction

supports multiple commands and their associated response packets for use in
configuring the ThunderBolt E to meet your requirements. See Appendix A, Trimble
Standard Interface Protocol.

Standard timing software features
•

Automatic self-survey

•

Signal integrity through a Time-Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitor
(T-RAIM) algorithm

Starter kit
The ThunderBolt E Starter Kit contains all the components required for evaluating and
engineering purposes and is quick and easy to install , with your +24 V power source. It
is a high-performance, cost-effective reference time source that uses GPS technology
to precisely synchronize computers, servers, and Internet applications. See Setting up
the ThunderBolt E, page 21.

Use and care
The ThunderBolt E is a high-precision electronic instrument and should be treated
with reasonable care.
If a problem arises with the unit, an amber indication appears in the monitor program
under Minor Alarms. Contact Trimble for technical direction and repair.
Note – Not every Minor Alarm indicates a problem.

CAUTION – There are no user-serviceable parts inside the ThunderBolt E and any
modification to the unit by the user voids the warranty.

Technical assistance
If you have a problem and cannot find the information you need in the product
documentation, contact the Trimble Technical Assistance Center at 800-767-4822 or
email timing@trimble.com.

Your comments
Your feedback about the supporting documentation helps us to improve it with each
revision. Email your comment to techpubs@trimble.co.nz.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Introduction

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

CHAPTER

2
Setting up and Running the
ThunderBolt E
In this chapter:
Q

System requirements

Installing and using the software

ThunderBolt E starter kit

Setting up the ThunderBolt E

Trimble recommends that you install the Trimble
GPS Monitor software before setting up the
ThunderBolt E GPS disciplined clock. This
enables you to monitor the acquisition of
satellites once you start up the GPS antenna.
A starter kit is available for testing, evaluation,
and engineering purposes. This section describes
the components of the starter kit, and how to set
it up.
The hardware integration is described in
Chapter 3, Hardware Integration.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Setting up and Running the ThunderBolt E

System requirements
Hardware
•

•

For evaluation or engineering purposes:
–

The Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS disciplined clock starter kit, see page 20.

–

User-provided connectors and extension cords to connect the
ThunderBolt E module to the computer, antenna interface, and other
devices as required.

For permanent installation:
–

ThunderBolt E GPS disciplined clock module

–

Trimble Bullet antenna

–

75–100 feet of approved cable (RG-6) with two M-M TNC connectors

Note – 50 Ω or 75 Ω RF cable can be used. Typical impedance mismatch will reflect only
0.5 dB of additional attenuation at 1575.42 MHz. See also Cable delay compensation,
page 17
–

+24 VDC power supply

–

User-provided equipment to analyze the 10 MHz output frequency and the
1 PPS accuracy, and a BNC connector to connect them to the
ThunderBolt E module.

–

User-provided connectors and extension cords to connect the
ThunderBolt E module to the computer, antenna interface, and other
devices as required.

Computer
•

An office computer running a version of the Microsoft® Windows® operating
system (Windows NT or later)

System software

•

Trimble GPS Monitor software. The software is used to monitor the GPS
performance of the ThunderBolt E and to change its settings. The software is
compatible with the Windows 95, 98, 2000, and XP operating systems and with
the Windows Vista® operating system. See Trimble GPS Monitor, page 15.

•

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol (TSIP). This consists of command packets
and report packets. See Appendix A, Trimble Standard Interface Protocol.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Setting up and Running the ThunderBolt E

Installing and using the software
All software programs for the ThunderBolt E are available online from the Trimble
website at www.trimble.com/timing.shtml. These programs enable you to monitor the
ThunderBolt E and change its configuration settings.

Tip – Install and set up the monitor program before turning on the ThunderBolt E—this
allows you to observe the timing process, from start up to fully functioning.

Trimble GPS Monitor

CAUTION – Use only the Trimble GPS Monitor software with this product. Previous
versions may not be compatible.

To install the Trimble GPS Monitor (TrimbleMon) application from the website:
1.

Go to http://www.trimble.com/TrimbleMon.shtml and then select
Support /ThunderBolt E Software Downloads /Installation Files.

Click Trimble Monitor Program and then download the Trimble_Mon.exe file to
the computer’s hard drive.

To run the application, double-click the file. The Trimble GPS Monitor screen
appears:

Tx and Rx indicators

COM port and settings

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Setting up and Running the ThunderBolt E

To view the Timing Receiver Status and Control information, select
Window/Receiver Status:

To specify the communications port and protocol for your office computer,
right-click in the bottom right of the Trimble GPS Monitor screen and then select
the required COM port and settings.

Connect the Bullet antenna to the ThunderBolt E using the provided antenna
interface cable.

Connect the DB-9M serial cable from the ThunderBolt E to DB-9F on your
computer.

Turn on the +24 V DC power source or plug in the AC/DC converter and then
turn on the power.
The Tx and Rx in the lower left of the status bar indicate the following:

–

If the Tx blinks, the computer is transmitting commands to the receiver.

–

If the Rx blinks, the computer is receiving reports from the receiver.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Setting up and Running the ThunderBolt E

The ThunderBolt E automatically begins its self-survey. When this is complete
and the receiver achieves a position fix, the following information appears in the
software:
–

position

–

time

–

satellites tracked

–

GPS receiver status

Note – The receiver sends a health report every few seconds, even if satellites are not being
tracked.
Data fields
If the Trimble GPS Monitor program displays a question mark (?) in a data field, the
receiver has not reported a status for this field. If the question mark stays in place, the
GPS module may not be communicating with the computer. Check the interface cable
connections and verify that the serial port selection and settings are set to 9600 baud,
no parity, 8-bit, and 1 stop/start bit.
If the communication fails, call the Trimble Technical Assistance Center (TAC) at
1 (800) 767-4822.
Receiver COM port settings
Packet 0xBC sets the ThunderBolt E GPS port characteristics. To change the receiver
port and then set or request the Input/Output baud rate, data bits, parity, stop bits, and
flow control parameters, select Configure / Receiver Configuration / Port Configuration
dialog.

TSIP
The Trimble Standard Interface Protocol (TSIP) consists of command packets and
report packets. The basic features that are described here include some of the more
commonly used commands and reports. For a complete description of TSIP, see
Appendix A, Trimble Standard Interface Protocol
Note – You do not need the packet number when you use the Windows Control Program.
Cable delay compensation
Packet 0x8E-4A enables you to delay or advance the 1 PPS. This may be required to
compensate for a long cable run. Negative values advance the 1 PPS and compensate
for cable delay. The 10 MHz and 1 PPS output will remain synchronized.
Note – The factory default is zero.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Setting up and Running the ThunderBolt E

Timing information
Packet 0x8F-AB (primary timing information) and packet 0x8F-AC (supplemental
timing information) contain most of the information that you need to monitor the
ThunderBolt E. In the default configuration, these packets are broadcast once per
second.
Elevation Mask
This is the minimum elevation angle for satellites that is used in a solution output by
the receiver (see Command Packet 0xBB: Set Receiver Configuration, page 62).
Satellites that are near the horizon are typically more difficult to track due to signal
attenuation, and are generally less accurate due to higher variability in the ionospheric
and tropospheric corruption of the signal. When there are no obstructions, the receiver
can generally track a satellite to near the horizon. However, when this mask is set too
low, the receiver may experience frequent constellation switching due to low elevation
satellites being obscured.
Frequent constellation switching is associated with undesirable timing jumps. If the
mask setting is too high, it may reject good satellites. The current mask is set to ten
degrees and provides a reasonable trade-off between the benefits and drawbacks.
Signal Level Mask
This mask defines the minimum signal strength for a satellite used in a solution. There
is some internal hysteresis on this threshold that allows brief excursions below the
threshold if lock is maintained and the signal was previously above the mask. The
factory default mask is zero. High accuracy users may use a slightly higher mask of 6.0
to 8.0, since weaker measurements may be slightly noisier and are often caused by
reflected signals that provide erroneous ranges.
Note – A level of hysteresis in the signal level mask is allowed in the core operating
software. The hysteresis allows the receiver to continue using satellite signals that fall
slightly below the mask and prevents the receiver from incorporating a new signal until the
signal level slightly exceeds the mask. This feature minimizes constellation changes caused
by temporary fluctuations in signal levels.
Reference position
When the antenna is connected and power is applied, the GPS module generates a
precise PPS signal, a 10 MHz frequency output, and several miscellaneous periodic
outputs. It calculates a clock-only solution from the GPS data. In clock-only
(position-hold) mode, a static reference position is established and all of the available
satellites are used to solve for a time solution. The reference position may be
determined automatically by the ThunderBolt E (self-survey) or may be uploaded to
the ThunderBolt E by the host, if the position is known. The accuracy and integrity of
the timing solution is highly dependent on the accuracy of the reference position.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Setting up and Running the ThunderBolt E

If the host has not uploaded a reference position, or if the module has been moved
more than one to two kilometers since its last position, the GPS module automatically
conducts a position survey at startup. By default, the GPS module averages 2000
position fixes before entering the clock-only mode. The host system can adjust the
survey period using packet 0x8E-A6. While the GPS module is performing its survey,
the accuracy of the timing outputs will be degraded.
Uploading a reference position
To upload an accurate reference position, use packet 0x31 (Command Packet 0x31:
Accurate Initial Position (XYZ Cartesian ECEF), page 44), or packet 0x32 (Command
Packet 0x32: Accurate Initial Position (Latitude, Longitude, Altitude), page 44): The
reference position is stored in EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ReadOnly Memory) and is retained during power loss. When a reference position is stored
in EEPROM, the GPS module bypasses the position survey procedure and enters
clock-only mode. If you move the antenna, you must send packet 0x8E-45 to clear the
position stored in EEPROM: The GPS module then initiates a self-survey, unless the
host uploads a new position using packet 0x31 or packet 0x32.
To store the reference position from the self-survey procedure in the EEPROM, send
packet 0x8E-4C to the receiver. Alternatively, you can configure the ThunderBolt E to
automatically save the position using packet 0x8E-A9.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Setting up and Running the ThunderBolt E

ThunderBolt E starter kit

Power cable

75 feet of Belden RG-6 cable,
terminated with TNC
connectors at both ends

Trimble Bullet antenna
(5 V with TNC connector)

Power converter
(24 VDC AC/DC)
Power pin adapters

BNC-m / TNC-f
connector

ThunderBolt E module

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Setting up and Running the ThunderBolt E

Setting up the ThunderBolt E
Note – You can either set up the starter kit temporarily for testing or evaluation purposes,
or embed it permanently into your system. The procedure is largely the same.
1.

Connect the male connector of the antenna cable to the Bullet antenna.

Place the antenna so that it has the fullest possible view of the sky.
To mount the antenna permanently, place it on a high point, such as a roof.
Make sure that it is placed away from obstructions, such as neighboring
buildings that may block its view of the sky, or overhanging objects, such as trees
or towers.

Note – If required, you can mount the antenna on a 1" marine pipe with 14 threads per
inch or on a 3/4" plumbers pipe.
3.

Route the antenna cable to the receiver.

Secure the cable using tie-wraps, starting at the antenna and allowing for a drip
loop, and working towards the ThunderBolt E module. Ensure that the cable is
secured at points close to the antenna and the ThunderBolt E module.

Note – Additional protection ( for example, heat-shrink tubing) may be required to protect
the cable jacket at points where the opening is rough or sharp, such as where it enters or
exits bulkheads.
5.

If required, cut the cable to the required length and then terminate it with the
correct connectors. Make sure that:
–

There is enough slack for a service loop near the antenna to allow for
disconnection, for moisture to drip away from the connection, and for
normal movements of the antenna.

–

All contact surfaces are clean and firm before crimping.

If cut, re-attach the male TNC connector to the cut end.

Connect the standard RS-232 interface cable directly to the office computer.

Note – The TSIP serial port is set at 9600 baud, no parity, 8-bit, 1 stop/start bit.
8.

Connect the +24 V DC power input (part of the Power and I/O interface cable
assembly) to the power converter.

Use the adaptor cable to connect the power converter to the main power and
then switch on the mains power.

After you turn on the ThunderBolt E, it takes approximately 5 minutes for the ovenized
oscillator to warm up. During this time, it will begin acquiring satellites in less than 60
seconds, as shown in the Trimble GPS Monitor software on your computer.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Setting up and Running the ThunderBolt E

Once the ThunderBolt E has warmed up and acquired satellites it performs a
self-survey: If at least one satellite is currently available, it will output 1 PPS and
10 MHz data to the Trimble GPS Monitor software, see page 15. The complete process
can take an hour. Overall performance will improve after several days of continuous
operation.
1 PPS and 10 MHz is not synchronized with GPS until the unit enters
Over-Determined Clock mode.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

CHAPTER

3
Hardware Integration
In this chapter:
Q

ThunderBolt E system
architecture

ThunderBolt E module

Bullet antenna specifications

Antenna cable

I/O connector pin-out

Power supply and connector

The setup procedures for the ThunderBolt E GPS
disciplined clock are described in Setting up the
ThunderBolt E, page 21. This chapter describes
the hardware components, to assist you when
you integrate the ThunderBolt E into a system.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Hardware Integration

ThunderBolt E system architecture

GPS receiver
electronics

GPS data

RS-232
CPU and support
circuitry

10 MHz clock

10 MHz OCXO

Serial
I/O
1 PPS
output
10 MHz
output

Control voltage

Digital to Analog
converter

ThunderBolt E module
The ThunderBolt E consists of a board mounted inside an aluminum case. The board
contains the parts for power regulation, a GPS receiver, an oscillator, and disciplining
circuitry.

Environmental specifications

Operating temperature

0 °C to +60 °C (32 °F to 140 °F)

Storage temperature

-40 °C to +85 °C (-40 °F to 185 °F)

Operating humidity

95% non-condensing

Maximum altitude

18,000 meter (11.2 miles)

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Hardware Integration

Performance specifications
General

L1 frequency, CA/code (SPS), 12-channel continuous tracking
receiver

Update rate

1 Hz

PPS accuracy

UTC 15 nanoseconds (one sigma)

10 MHz accuracy

1.16 x 10-12 (one day average)

Harmonic level

-40 dBc max

Spurious

-70 dBc max

Phase noise

10 Hz -120 dBc/Hz
100 Hz - 135 dBc/Hz
1 kHz -135 dBc/Hz
10 kHz -145 dBc/Hz
100 kHz -145 dBc/Hz

Holdover

Some customers, such as CDMA manufacturers, have
historically mandated tighter holdover requirements than
specified. For increased holdover performance, please contact
your local Trimble representative.

Physical characteristics
Power consumption

15 W cold
10 W steady state

Antenna supply voltage

5 V ±10%

Dimensions

127 mm (length) x 102 mm (width) x 40 mm (height)
(5" x 4" x 2")

Weight

0.285 kg (0.628 lb)

Mounting

6 mounting holes for M3 screws. Maximum depth 12 mm.

The module dimensions of the ThunderBolt E are shown overleaf.

CAUTION – When permanently mounting the ThunderBolt E onto a plate, you must
consider the length of the screw and the thickness of plate so that you do not protrude
into the ThunderBolt E and potentially damage the electronics.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Hardware Integration

Figure 3.1

ThunderBolt E mechanical specification

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Hardware Integration

Bullet antenna specifications
To download full specifications of the Bullet antenna, as well as ordering information,
please go to the Trimble website.

Physical characteristics
Dimensions

77.5 mm diameter x 66.2 mm height (3.05" x 2.61")

Bullet enclosure

Textured, off-white plastic

Antenna weight

170 grams (6 oz)

Connector

F-type or TNC

Mount

1"-14 thread or 3/4" pipe thread

Note – The Bullet III mounting thread is a 3/4" NPT thread, dimensions in accordance
with ANSI/ASME B1.20.1. It is compatible with tapered threads in accordance with
DIN EN 10226 (which is the same as ISO 7/1, DIN 2999, BSP 21, JIS B0203). It is not
compatible with straight threads in accordance with ISO 228/1.

Environmental specifications
Operating temperature

-40 °C to +85 °C (-40 °F to 185 °F)

Storage temperature

-40 °C to +100 °C (-40 °F to 212 °F)

Vibration

0.04g2/Hz 10 Hz to 500 Hz
0.03g2/Hz 500 Hz to 850 Hz
0.02g2/Hz 850 Hz to 1200 Hz

Shock

50 g vertical, 30 g all axes

Humidity

Mil-STD-810E

Salt Fog

Mil. Std. 202F, Method 101D Condition B

Waterproof

Submersion to 1 meter

Antenna cable
Trimble includes an RG-6 cable in the starter kit to connect the ThunderBolt E and the
Bullet antenna. This cable type is widely available.
Note – The ThunderBolt E and the Bullet antenna are compatible with either 50 Ω or 75 Ω
cable. Compared to most 50 Ω cable, 75 Ω cable provides superior transmission for the 1.5
GHz GPS signal and a better quality cable for the price. Mismatched impedance is not a
problem.
Note – RG-6 cable is lower loss than RG-59 and can be used when trying to maximize a
cable run without the use of in-line amplifiers.
The Bullet antenna has greater than 28 dB gain and “best case” noise figure of 3 dB. The
ThunderBolt E has less than an 8 dB noise figure. The system can therefore “tolerate”
18 dB of cable loss for less than 1 dB degradation in performance.
Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Hardware Integration

In cases where the distance between the Bullet and the ThunderBolt E is excessive ( for
example when the loss exceeds 18 dB), an inline amplifier is necessary.
The following table shows the loss relationships:
Cable type

dB / 100 ft

dB / 100 meter

Max lenght for 18 dB loss at
1575 MHz (feet / meter)

RG-6

150/45

RG8 (and 8/U)

9.6

185/58

RG-8X

16.8

107/33

RG-58

19.6

92/28

RG-59

14.7

48.2

122/37

LMR-400

5.3

17.2

340/105

LMR-600

3.4

11.2

530/161/161

In cases where the run length is such that the loss exceeds 18 dB, an inline amplifier
(LNA) with the following specifications is required:
•

Place the LNA at a point in the coaxial line so that the loss between the Bullet
antenna and the LNA does not exceed 18 dB.

•

The noise figure of the LNA must be 3 dB or less. The gain of the LNA should be
at least 3 dB greater than the cable loss between the output of the inline LNA
and the ThunderBolt E input. Trimble recommends that a filtered LNA is used
to reduce overload by out-of-and signals. (Filtered LNAs are made by GPS
Networking.)
For example, if you choose an RG-6 cable with 40 dB/100 meter loss, and the
required run-length is 90 meters, the total loss for his run would be
(0.9)(40 dB/100 meters) = 36 dB. This exceeds 18 dB and means that you need to
use an inline amplifier.
However, if you select an LMR-400 or LMR-600 cable, you would not need an
inline amplifier.

•

The noise figure of the inline amplifier must be 3 dB or less. The gain of this LNA
would be 21 dB (18 dB loss precedes LNA, 18 dB of loss follows LNA, and drives
requirement for 18 + 3 = 21 dB gain for the LNA).

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Hardware Integration

I/O connector pin-out
The RS-232 serial port uses a DB-9 connector. This configuration supports connections
to the RS-232 serial port on a computer. The pinout functions are as follows.
Pin

Function

Not used

Signal / Protocol

TxD

Transmit out/RS-232

RxD

Receive in RS-232

Not used

Signal ground

Not used

Power supply and connector
The ThunderBolt E starter kit includes a 24 V power supply regulator. The module
requires a locally supplied +24 VDC. Power consumption is 15 Watts cold and 10 Watts
steady state.
Use the following to connect to the ThunderBolt E power input:
MOLEX part number

Item

Quantity

MLX 39-01-2020

Connector plug

MLX 44476-112

Contact pin

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Hardware Integration

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

CHAPTER

4
Firmware Integration
In this chapter:
Q

Firmware configuration

Firmware upgrades

Firmware features

This section will help a developer to understand
the structure of the ThunderBolt E firmware.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Firmware Integration

Firmware configuration
The ThunderBolt E maintains its configuration parameters in a non-volatile memory
device (EEPROM). In the EEPROM, related configuration parameters are grouped
together and stored in an area known as a “segment”. There are seven
user-configurable segments. Immediately after a reset, the ThunderBolt E reads the
segment contents from the EEPROM, stores a working copy in RAM and then
configures itself based on the working copy of the segments. You can do the following:
•

To modify the contents of the working copy, use the “Set” command packets.

•

To read the working copies of the segments, issue the “Request” command
packet and wait for the “Report” packet response.

When you alter a parameter, the ThunderBolt E reconfigures, but the contents of the
EEPROM are not changed automatically.
The ThunderBolt E has two command packets that can control the contents of the
segments stored in EEPROM:
•

Command packet 0x8E-4C enables you to save the contents of any or all
working copies of the segments to EEPROM.

•

Command packet 0x8E-45 enables you to set the contents of any or all the
segments stored in EEPROM to the factory default.

Firmware upgrades
When firmware upgrades are available, Trimble will provide software and instructions
for installation on the Trimble website at www.trimble.com/timing.

Firmware features
The firmware includes:

•

Kalman filtering for better performance during holdover.

•

1 PPS calibrated to the USNO master clock for a more accurate “out of box”
performance.

•

New position integrity monitor that warns you if the receiver is using an
incorrect position.

•

User-selectable recovery algorithm that enables you to define how the clock will
recover from holdover.

•

Silent TSIP options that enables you to choose which packets, if any, are to be
reported.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

APPENDIX

A
Trimble Standard Interface Protocol
In this appendix:
Q

Introduction

Packet structure

Packet descriptions

The Trimble Standard Interface Protocol (TSIP)
may be characterized as a set of data packets
used to transmit information to and receive
information from a Trimble GPS receiver. Trimble
products commonly support a version of TSIP
which is customized to the attributes of the
product. This appendix describes the
ThunderBolt E customization.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Introduction
TSIP is a powerful and compact interface protocol which has been designed to allow
the system developer a great deal of flexibility in interfacing to a Trimble product.
Many TSIP data packets are common to all products which use TSIP. An example
would be a single precision position output packet. Other packets may be unique to a
product. Custom packets are only used in the products for which they have been
created.
Note – This appendix has been generated and reviewed with care, however, Trimble is
always grateful to receive reports of any errors in either products or documentation.

Interface scope
ThunderBolt E has one configurable serial I/O communication port, which is a
bi-directional control and data port using a Trimble Standard Interface Protocol
(TSIP). The data I/O port characteristics and other options are user programmable
and stored in non-volatile storage (NVS) memory.
The TSIP protocol is based on the transmission of packets of information between the
user equipment and the GPS receiver. Each packet includes an identification code that
identifies the meaning and format of the data that follows. Each packet begins and
ends with control characters.

Automatic output packets
ThunderBolt E is configured to automatically output the 0x8F-AB and 0x8F-AC
packets. For most system implementations these output packets provide all of the
information required for operation including time, position, GPS status, and health.
The following packets can be broadcast if enabled with packet 0x8E-A5 and 0x35. By
default, only packets 0x8F-AB and 0x8F-AC are enabled for output.
Broadcast output packets
Broadcast
Packet ID

Description

0x42

Position XYZ (ECEF), single precision 0x35 and
0x37
0x8E-A5 (bit 6)

When a position fix is
computed

0x43

Velocity XYZ, single precision

0x35 and
0x37
0x8E-A5 (bit 6)

When a position fix is
computed

0x47

Signal Levels

0x8E-A5 (bit 6) 0x27

Once per second

0x4A

Position LLA, single precision

0x35 and
0x37
0x8E-A5 (bit 6)

When a position fix is
computed

0x56

Velocity ENU, single precision

0x35 and
0x37
0x8E-A5 (bit 6)

When a position fix is
computed

0x5A

Raw Measurements

0x35 and
0x3A
0x8E-A5 (bit 6)

When new measurements
are available

0x6D

Satellite list, DOPS, mode

0x8E-A5 (bit 6) 0x24

Once per second

Masking
Packet ID

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Request
Packet ID

When Sent

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Broadcast
Packet ID

Description

Masking
Packet ID

Request
Packet ID

0x83

Position XYZ (ECEF), double
precision

0x35 and
0x37
0x8E-A5 (bit 6)

When a position fix is
computed

0x84

Position LLA, double precision

0x35 and
0x37
0x8E-A5 (bit 6)

When a position fix is
computed

0x8F-AB

Primary timing packet

0x8E-A5 (bit 0) 0x8E-AB

Once per second

0x8F-AC

Secondary timing packet

0x8E-A5 (bit 2) 0x8E-AC

Once per second

When Sent

Customizing operations parameters
Thunderbolt E provides a number of user-configurable parameters that enables the
user to customize its operation. These parameters are stored in NVS memory to be
retained during loss of power and through resets. At reset or power up, ThunderBolt E
configures itself based on the parameters stored in NVS. The user can change the
values of these parameters to achieve the desired operation using a variety of TSIP
packets. ThunderBolt E configures itself based upon the new parameters immediately,
but the new parameter is not automatically saved to NVS. The user must direct
ThunderBolt E to save the parameters to NVS. This is done by sending packet 0x8E-4C
with the ID of the segment containing the changed parameter. Users can also direct
ThunderBolt E to set the parameter values for a specified segment to their factory
defaults by sending packet 0x8E-45.
To customize ThunderBolt E output:
1.

Set up ThunderBolt E using TSIP commands until the required operation is
achieved.

Use command 0x8E-4C to store the settings in non-volatile memory (except for
position, which is saved or deleted with packet 0x8E-A6.)

These settings will control ThunderBolt E operations whenever it is cold-reset or
power cycled. The following tables illustrate how the user configurable data is
mapped.
Factory default settings (segment 3)
Parameter

Factory Default

Set

Request

Report

Receiver mode

4 (Full Position 3D)

0xBB

Dynamics code

1 (Land)

0xBB

Elevation mask

0.175 radians (10 deg)

0xBB

Signal level mask

4 (AMU)

0xBB

PDOP mask

0xBB

PDOP switch

0xBB

Foliage mode

1 (Sometimes)

0xBB

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Packet I/O control (segment 4)
Parameter

Factory Default

Packet broadcast mask
Mask 0
0x05
Mask 1
0x00

Set

Request

Report

0x8E-A5

Packet 0x35 data
Position (Byte 0)
Velocity (Byte 1)
Timing (Byte 2)
Auxiliary (Byte 3)

0x12
0x02
0x00
0x00

0x35
0x35
0x35
0x35

Datum

0 (WGS-84)

0x8E-15

Serial port configuration (segment 5)
Parameter

Factory Default

Set

Request

Report

Input baud rate

7 (9600 baud)

0xBC

Output baud rate

7 (9600 baud)

0xBC

Data bits

3 (8 bits)

0xBC

Parity

0 (none)

0xBC

Stop bits

0 (1 bit)

0xBC

Input protocol

2 (TSIP)

0xBC

Output protocol

2 (TSIP)

0xBC

Set

Request

Report

Timing outputs (segment 6)
Parameter

Factory Default

PPS enable

1 (enabled)

0x8E-4A

PPS sense

1 (rising edge)

0x8E-4A

PPS offset

0.0 (seconds)

0x8E-4A

Bias Uncertainty
Threshold

300.0 (Meters)

0x8E-4A

0x8F-4A

PPS Output Qualifier

2 (always on)

0x8E-4E

0x8F-4E

UTC/GPS Date/Time

0 (GPS)

0x8E-A2

0x8F-A2

UTC/GPS PPS Alignment 0 (GPS)

0x8E-A2

0x8F-A2

Accurate position (segment 7)

Parameter

Factory Default

Set

Request

Report

Position

No stored position

0x31, 0x32,
self-survey

0x8E-AC

0x8F-AC

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Self-survey (segment 8)
Parameter

Factory Default

Set

Request

Report

Self-survey enable

1 (enabled)

0x8E-A9

Position save flag

1 (save)

0x8E-A9

Self-survey count

2000 (fixes)

0x8E-A9

Oscillator disciplining (segment 9)
Parameter

Factory Default

Set

Request

Report

Time Constant

10.0 seconds

0x8E-A8

Loop Damping

1.0

0x8E-A8

8.83 (Hz/volt)

0x8E-A8

Minimum control
voltage

0.0 (volts)

0x8E-A8

Maximum control
voltage

4.0 (volts)

0x8E-A8

Initial DAC voltage

2.0 (volts)

0x8E-A8

Recovery mode jam
sync threshold

300.0 (ns)

0x8E-A8

Recovery mode
maximum frequency
offset

50.0 (ppb)

0x8E-A8

Packets output at power-up
After completing its self-diagnostics, ThunderBolt E automatically outputs packet
0x45 (Software version),

Command packets: User to ThunderBolt E
The following table summarizes the packets that can be sent to the ThunderBolt E by
the user:
Input ID

Packet Description

Output ID

0x1C

Firmware/Hardware versions

0x1C

0x1E

Initiate cold, warm, or factory reset

0x45 (after reset)

0x1F

Request software version

0x45

0x24

Request GPS satellite selection

0x6D

0x25

Initiate hot reset

0x45 (after reset)

0x26

Request receiver health

0x46, 0x4B

0x27

Request signal levels

0x47

0x29

Request Almanac Health

0x49

0x31

Set accurate position (XYZ ECEF)

0x32

Set accurate position (Lat, Long, Alt)

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Input ID

Packet Description

Output ID

0x34

Set satellite selection for one-satellite mode

0x35

Set/request I/O options

0x55

0x37

Request status and value of last position and velocity fixes

0x57 (and other enabled
packets)

0x38

Load/request satellite system data

0x58

0x39

Set/request satellite disable or ignore health

0x59

0x3A

Request last raw measurement

0x5A

0x3B

Request ephemeris status

0x5B

0x3C

Request current satellite tracking status

0x5C

0x3F-11

Request EEPROM segment status

0x5F-11

0x70

Set/request filter configuration

0x70

0xBB

Set/request receiver configuration

0xBB

0xBC

Set/request serial port configuration

0xBC

0x8E-15

Set/request current datum

0x8F-15

0x8E-26

Save configuration

0x45 (after reset)

0x8E-41

Request manufacturing parameters

0x8F-41

0x8E-42

Request production parameters

0x8F-42

0x8E-45

Set configuration segment parameters to factory defaults

0x8F-45

0x8E-4A

Set/request PPS characteristics

0x8F-4A

0x8E-4C

Save configuration segment to NVS

0x8F-4C

0x8E-4E

Set/request PPS output option

0x8F-4E

0x8E-A0

Set/request DAC value

0x8F-A0

0x8E-A2

Set/request UTC/GPS timing

0x8F-A2

0x8E-A3

Issue oscillator disciplining command

0x8F-A3

0x8E-A4

Set test modes

0x8F-A4

0x8E-A5

Set/request packet broadcast mask

0x8F-A5

0x8E-A6

Issue self-survey command

0x8F-A6

0x8E-A8

Set/request oscillator disciplining parameters

0x8F-A8

0x8E-A9

Set/request self-survey parameters

0x8F-A9

0x8E-AB

Request primary timing packet

0x8F-AB

0x8E-AC

Request supplemental timing packet

0x8F-AC

Report packets: ThunderBolt E to User
The following table summarizes the packets output by ThunderBolt E:
Output ID

Packet Description

Input ID

0x1C

Firmware/Hardware Versions

0x1C

0x42

Single-precision XYZ position

0x37, auto

0x43

Velocity fix (XYZ ECEF)

0x37, auto

0x45

Software version information

0x1E, 0x1F, power-up

0x46

Receiver health

0x26, auto

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Output ID

Packet Description

Input ID

0x47

Signal level for all satellites

0x27, auto

0x49

Almanac health

0x29

0x4A

Single-precision LLA position

0x37, auto

0x4B

Receiver health

0x26, auto

0x55

I/O options

0x35

0x56

Velocity fix (ENU)

0x37, auto

0x57

Information about last computed fix

0x37

0x58

GPS system data/acknowledge

0x38

0x59

Sat enable/disable & health flag

0x39

0x5A

Raw measurement data

0x3A

0x5B

Ephemeris status

0x3B

0x5C

Satellite tracking status

0x3C

0x5F-11

EEPROM segment status

0x3F-11

0x6D

Satellite selection list

0x24, auto

0x83

Double-precision XYZ

0x37, auto

0x84

Double-precision LLA

0x37, auto

0x70

Filter configuration

0x70

0xBB

Receiver configuration

0xBB

0xBC

Serial port configuration

0xBC

0x8F-15

Current datum values

0x8E-15

0x8F-41

Stored manufacturing operating parameters

0x8E-41

0x8F-42

Stored production parameters

0x8E-42

0x8F-45

Configuration parameters set to factory defaults

0x8F-45

0x8F-4A

PPS characteristics

0x8E-4A

0x8F-4C

Configuration segment saved to NVS

0x8F-4C

0x8F-4E

PPS output option

0x8E-4E

0x8F-A0

DAC setting

0x8E-A0

0x8F-A2

UTC/GPS timing

0x8E-A2

0x8F-A3

Oscillator disciplining command

0x8E-A3

0x8F-A4

Test modes

0x8E-A4

0x8F-A5

Packet broadcast mask

0x8E-A5

0x8F-A6

Self-survey command

0x8E-A6

0x8F-A8

Oscillator disciplining parameters

0x8E-A8

0x8F-A9

Self-survey parameters

0x8E-A9

0x8F-AB

Primary timing packet

0x8E-AB, auto

0x8F-AC

Supplemental timing packet

0x8E-AC, auto

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Packet structure
TSIP packet structure is the same for both commands and reports. The packet format
is
Where:
•

is the byte 0x10

•

is the byte 0x03

•

is a packet identifier byte, which can have any value except and
.

The bytes in the data string can have any value. To prevent confusion with the frame
sequences and , every byte in the data string is
preceded by an extra byte ('stuffing'). These extra bytes must be added
before sending a packet and removed after receiving the packet. A simple
sequence does not necessarily signify the end of the packet, as these can be
bytes in the middle of a data string. The end of a packet is , preceded by an odd
number of bytes.
Floating point numbers (single, double) follow the IEEE Standard for Binary
Floating-Point Arithmetic (IEEE 754.) Multiple-byte numbers (integer, single and
double) are sent most-significant byte first.
Note – On Intel-based (little-endian) machines you must switch the byte order.
The data types used in TSIP are as follows:
Data type

Description

UINT8

An 8-bit unsigned integer (0 to 255)

SINT8

An 8-bit signed integer (-128 to 127)

INT16

A 16-bit unsigned integer (0 to 65,535)

SINT16

A 16-bit signed integer (-32,768 to 32,767)

UINT32

A 32-bit unsigned integer (0 to 4,294,967,295)

SINT32

A 32-bit signed integer (-2,147,483,648 to 2,147,483,647)

Single

Single-precision float (4 bytes) (1.2x10-38 to 3.4x1038)

Double

Double-precision float (8 bytes) (2.2x10-308 to 1.8x10308)

Note – Default serial port settings are 9600, 8-None-1.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Packet descriptions
Packet descriptions used in run mode
Report packet 0X13 unparsable packet
This packet is sent in response to a received packet that was unparsable. A packet is
unparsable if the packet ID is not recognized or if the length or content of the packet is
not correct for the packet ID.
Byte

Type

Item

UINT8

Packet ID of unparsable packet

1-N

UINT8

Packet data bytes of unparsable packet

Command packet 0x1C:01 - Firmware version
The command packet 0x1C: 01 may be issued to obtain the firmware version. The
packet format is defined in the following table:
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Definition

Packet ID

0x1C

Packet ID 0x1C

Sub-code

0x01

Sub-code 0x01 for software component
version information request.

Report packet 0x1C:81 - Report firmware version
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Definition

Packet ID

0x1C

Packet ID 0x1C

Sub-code

0x81

Sub-code 0x81 for software
component version information
report.

Reserved

Any

Reserved

Major version

Any

Firmware major version

Minor version

Any

Firmware minor version

Build number

Any

Firmware build number

Month

1-12

Firmware build month

Day

1-31

Firmware build day

8...9

Year

U16

Any

Firmware build year

Length of first
module name

Any

The length of the product name
(L1)

11 ... (10+L1) Product name

String

Product name string in ASCII

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Command packet 0x1C: 03 - Hardware component version information
•

The command packet 0x1C: 03 may be issued to obtain the hardware
component version information.

•

The report packet is of variable length, depending on the length of the hardware
ID.

•

The serial number, build date fields, and the hardware ID are programmed into
the ThunderBolt E at production.

•

The hardware code is 3007.

Byte

Item

Type

Value

Definition

Packet ID

0x1C

Packet ID 0x1C

Sub-code

0x03

Sub-code 0x03 for hardware
component version information
request.

Report packet 0x1C: 83 - Hardware component version information

Byte

Item

Type

Value

Definition

Packet ID

0x1C

Packet ID 0x1C

Sub-code

0x83

Sub-code 0x83 for hardware
component version information
report.

2 ... 5

Serial number

U32

Any

Board serial number

Build day

1-31

Day of the board's build date

Build month

1-12

Month of the board's build date

8...9

Build year

U16

Any

Year of the board's build date

Build hour

0-23

Hour of the board's build date

11 ... 12

Hardware code

U16

Any

Hardware code associated with the
hardware ID

Length of
hardware ID

Any

The length of the hardware ID (L)

14 (13 + L)

Hardware ID

String

Hardware ID string in ASCII

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Command Packet 0x1E: Initiate Cold, Warm, or Factory Reset
This packet commands receiver to perform either a cold reset, warm reset or a factory
reset. A cold reset will clear the GPS data (almanac, ephemeris, etc.) stored in RAM and
is equivalent to a power cycle. A factory reset will additionally restore the factory
defaults of all configuration parameters stored in flash memory. A warm reset clears
ephemeris and oscillator uncertainty but retains the last position, time and almanac.
This packet contains one data byte. The data format is shown below.
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

Reset

UINT8

0x4B
0x0E
0x46

Cold reset
Warm reset
Factory reset

Note – The factory reset command will delete the stored position and cause a self-survey to
restart.
Command Packet 0x1F: Request Software Version
This packet requests information about the version of software in ThunderBolt E. This
packet contains no data. The requested data is returned in packet 0x45.
Command Packet 0x24: Request GPS Satellite Selection
This packet requests a list of satellites used for the current position/time fix. This
packet contains no data. The requested data is returned in packet 0x6D.
Command Packet 0x25: Initiate Hot Reset
This packet commands the GPS receiver to perform a hot reset. This is not equivalent
to cycling the power; RAM is not cleared. This packet contains no data.
Command Packet 0x26: Request Receiver Health
This packet requests receiver health status. This packet contain no data. The
requested data is returned in packet 0x46 and packet 0x4B.
Command Packet 0x27: Request Signal Levels
This packet requests signal levels for all satellites currently being tracked. This packet
contain no data. The requested data is returned in packet 0x47.
Command Packet 0x29: Request Almanac Health
This packet requests Almanac health data. This packet contain no data. The requested
data is returned in packet 0x49.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Command Packet 0x31: Accurate Initial Position (XYZ Cartesian ECEF)
This packet provides an accurate initial position to the GPS receiver in XYZ
coordinates. Either the single precision or the double precision version of this packet
may be used, however, we recommend using the double precision version for greatest
accuracy. ThunderBolt E uses this position for performing time-only fixes. If a survey is
in progress when this command is sent, the survey is aborted and this position data is
used immediately. ThunderBolt E will automatically switch to the Over-Determined
Timing mode when this command is issued. Note that this position is not
automatically saved to flash memory. If you want to save this position, first set the
position, wait at least 2 seconds and then use packet 0x8E-A6 to save the position.
Command Packet 0x31 Data Format (single precision)
Byte

Item

Type

Units

0-3

X-axis

Single

Meters

4-7

Y-axis

Single

Meters

8-11

Z-axis

Single

Meters

Command Packet 0x31 Data Format (double precision)
Byte

Item

Type

Units

0-7

X-axis

Double

Meters

8-15

Y-axis

Double

Meters

16-23

Z-axis

Double

Meters

Command Packet 0x32: Accurate Initial Position (Latitude, Longitude,
Altitude)
This packet provides an accurate initial position to the GPS receiver in latitude,
longitude, and altitude coordinates. Either the single precision or the double precision
version of this packet may be used, however, we recommend using the double
precision version for greatest accuracy. The GPS receiver uses this position for
performing time-only fixes. If a survey is in progress when this command is issued, the
survey is aborted, and this position data is used immediately. The coordinates entered
must be in the WGS-84 datum. ThunderBolt E will automatically switch to the
Over-Determined Timing mode when this command is issued. Note that this position
is not automatically saved to flash memory. If you want to save this position, first set
the position, wait at least 2 seconds and then use packet 0x8E-A6 to save the position.
Note – When converting from degrees to radians use the following value for
p = 3.1415926535898

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Command Packet 0x32 Data Format (single precision)
Byte

Item

Type

Units

0-3

Latitude

Single

Radians, (+ for north, - for south)

4-7

Longitude

Single

Radians, (+ for east, - for west)

8-11

Altitude

Single

Meters

Command Packet 0x32 Data Format (double precision)
Byte

Item

Type

Units

0-7

Latitude

Double

Radians, (+ for north, - for south)

8-15

Longitude

Double

Radians, (+ for east, - for west)

16-23

Altitude

Double

Meters

Command Packet 0x34: Satellite Selection For One-Satellite Mode
This packet allows the user to control the choice of the satellite to be used for the onesatellite time-only fix mode. This packet contains one byte. If the byte value is 0, the
GPS receiver automatically chooses the best satellite. This automatic selection of the
best satellite is the default action, and the GPS receiver does this unless it receives this
packet. If the byte value is from 1 to 32, the packet specifies the PRN number of the
satellite to be used.
Command Packet 0x35: Set or Request I/O Options
This packet requests the current I/O option states and allows the I/O option states to
be set as desired.
To request the option states without changing them, the user sends this packet with
no data bytes. To change any option states, the user includes 4 data bytes with the
values. The I/O options, their default states, and the byte values for all possible states
are shown below. These options can be set into non-volatile memory with the
0x8E-4C-04 command. The GPS receiver returns packet 0x55.
The following abbreviations apply:
•

ALT (Altitude)

•

ECEF (Earth centered, Earth-fixed)

•

XYZ (Cartesian coordinates)

•

LLA (latitude, longitude, altitude)

•

HAE (height above ellipsoid)

•

WGS-84 (Earth model (ellipsoid))

•

MSL geoid (mean sea level)

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

•
Byte
0

UTC (universal coordinated time)

Data Type

Bit

Value

Meaning

Associated Packet

Position

0
1

ECEF off
ECEF on

0x42 or 0x83

0
1

LLA off
LLA on

0x4A or 0x84

0
1

HAE (datum)
MSL geoid1

0x4A or 0x84

reserved

0
1

single-precision position
double-precision position

0x42/4A
0x83/84

Superpacket 0x8F-20 off
Superpacket 0x8F-20 on

0x8F-20
0x8F-20

5:7

reserved

0
1

ECEF off
ECEF on

0x43

0
1

ENU off
ENU on

0x56

2:7

reserved

0
1

GPS time reference
UTC time reference

0x42, 0x43, 0x4A,
0x83, 0x84, 0x56

0
1

Compute fix ASAP
Compute fix on integer second

0x42, 0x43, 0x4A,
0x83, 0x84, 0x56

0
1

0x37Time of fix: when computed
0x37Time of fix: on request

0x37

0
1

Simultaneous meas. Status off
Simultaneous meas. Status on

0
1

Minimum projection off
Minimum projection on

Velocity

Timing

Auxiliary

5:7

reserved

0
1

Raw measurement packet 5A off
Raw measurement packet 5A on

0
1

Raw codephase measurements
Filtered codephase measurements

2:7

reserved

0x5A

When using the MSL altitude output, the current datum must be set to WGS-84.

Command Packet 0x37: Request Status and Values of Last Position
This packet requests information regarding the last position fix (normally used when
the GPS receiver is not automatically outputting fixes). The GPS receiver returns the
position/ velocity auto packets specified in the 0x35 message as well as message 0x57.
This packet contains no data.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Command Packet 0x38: Request Satellite System Data
This packet requests current satellite data.The GPS receiver returns packet 0x58.
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

Operation

UINT8

Must always be '1'

Type of data

UINT8

Almanac

Sat PRN

UINT8

Health page, toa, WNa

Ionosphere

UTC

Ephemeris

Data not satellite ID specific

1 - 32

Satellite PRN number

Command Packet 0x39: Set or Request SV Disable and Health Use
Normally the GPS receiver selects only healthy satellites (based on transmitted values
in the ephemeris and almanac) which satisfy all mask values. This packet allows
overriding the internal logic and forces the receiver to either unconditionally disable a
particular satellite or to ignore a bad health flag. The GPS receiver returns packet 0x59
if operation 3 or 6 is requested; otherwise there is no reply.
It should be noted that when viewing the satellite disables list, the satellites are not
numbered but are in numerical order. The disabled satellites are signified by a "1" and
enabled satellites are signified by a "0".
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

Operation

UINT8

Enable satellite (default)

Disable satellite

Request enable/disable status of all 32
satellites

Heed health (default)

Ignore health

Request heed or ignore health on all 32
satellites

All 32 satellites

1-32

Any one satellite PRN number

Sat PRN

UINT8

Note – At power-on and after a reset the default values are set for all satellites.

CAUTION – Improperly ignoring health can cause the GPS receiver software to lock up, as
an unhealthy satellite may contain defective data. Use extreme caution in ignoring
satellite health.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Command Packet 0x3A: Request Last Raw Measurement
This packet requests the most recent raw measurement data for one specified satellite.
The GPS receiver returns packet 0x5A if data is available.
Byte

Item

Type

Satellite PRN UINT8

Value

Meaning

All satellites in current tracking set

1-32

Specific desired satellite

Command Packet 0x3B: Request Ephemeris Status
This packet requests the current status of satellite ephemeris data. The GPS receiver
returns packet 0x5B if data is available.
Byte

Item

Satellite PRN UINT8

Type

Value

Meaning

All satellites in current tracking set

1-32

Specific desired satellite

Command Packet 0x3C: Request Satellite Tracking Status
This packet requests the current satellite tracking status. The GPS receiver returns
packet 0x5C if data is available.
Byte

Item

Type

Satellite PRN UINT8

Value

Meaning

All satellites in current tracking set

1-32

Specific desired satellite

Command Packet 0x3F-11: Request EEPROM Segment Status
This packet requests the current satellite tracking status. The GPS receiver returns
packet 0x5C if data is available.

Byte

Item

Type

Satellite PRN UINT8

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Value

Meaning

All satellites in current tracking set

1-32

Specific desired satellite

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Report Packet 0x42: Single-precision Position Fix
This packet provides current GPS position fix in XYZ ECEF coordinates. If the I/O
"position" option is set to "XYZ ECEF" and the I/O "Precision-of-Position output" is set
to single-precision, then the GPS receiver sends this packet each time a fix is computed
or in response to packet 0x37. The data format is shown below. The time-of-fix is in
GPS or UTC as selected by the I/O "timing" option in packet 0x35. Packet 0x83 provides
a double-precision version of this information.
Byte

Item

Type

Units

0-3

Single

meters

4-7

Single

meters

8-11

Single

meters

12-15

time-of-fix

Single

seconds

Report Packet 0x43: Velocity Fix, XYZ ECEF
This packet provides current GPS velocity fix in XYZ ECEF coordinates. If the I/O
"velocity" option (packet 0x35) is set to "XYZ ECEF," then the GPS receiver sends this
packet each time a fix is computed or in response to packet 0x37. The data format is
shown below. The time-of-fix is in GPS or UTC as selected by the I/O "timing" option.
Byte

Item

Type

Units

0-3

X velocity

Single

meters/second

4-7

Y velocity

Single

meters/second

8-11

Z velocity

Single

meters/second

12-15

bias rate

Single

meters/second

16-19

time-of-fix

Single

seconds

Report Packet 0x45: Software Version Information
This packet provides information about the version of firmware running on the GPS
receiver. The receiver sends this packet after power-on, reset, and in response to
packet 0x1F.
Byte

Item

Type

Major version number of application

UINT8

Minor version number of application

UINT8

Month

UINT8

Day

UINT8

Year number minus 1900

UINT8

Major revision number of GPS core

UINT8

Minor revision number of GPS core

UINT8

Month

UINT8

Day

UINT8

Year number minus 1900

UINT8

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Note – Bytes 0 through 4 are part of the application layer of the firmware, while bytes 5
through 9 are part of the GPS core layer of the firmware.
Report Packet 0x46: Receiver Health
This packet provides receiver health status. The receiver sends this packet in response
to packet 0x26.
Byte

Item

Type

SV Fix Status

bit field

Antenna Fault
status

Value

bit field

Meaning

0x00

Doing fixes

0x01

Do not have GPS time yet

0x03

PDOP too high

0x0C

Bad 1 SV

0x08

No usable SV's

0x09

Only 1 usable SV

0x0A

Only 2 usable SVs

0x0B

Only 3 usable SVs

0xBB

Over-Determined Clock mode

Bit 0
Bits 1-3
Bits 4-7

0 if Warm start, 1 otherwise unused
0000 = no fault
0001 = antenna circuit open
0011 = antenna circuit short

Report Packet 0x47: Signals Levels for Tracked Satellites
This packet provides received signal levels for all satellites currently being tracked or
on which tracking is being attempted (i.e., above the elevation mask and healthy
according to the almanac). The receiver sends this packet in response to packet 0x27 or
automatically as listed in the Automatic Output Packets section. The data format is
shown below. Up to 12 satellite number/signal level pairs may be sent as indicated by
the count field. Signal level is normally positive. If it is zero then that satellite has not
yet been acquired. If it is negative then that satellite is not currently in lock. The
absolute value of signal level field is the last known signal level of that satellite.
Byte

Item

Type

Count

UINT8

Satellite number 1

UINT8

2-5

Signal level 1

Single

Satellite number 2

UINT8

7-10

Signal level 2

Single

(etc.)

Note – The signal level provided in this packet is a linear measure of the signal strength
after correlation or de-spreading. Units are either AMU or dB-Hz as controlled by packet
0x35.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Report Packet 0x49: Almanac Health
This packet provides health data on 32 satellites. Packet data consists of a data byte for
each of 32 satellites, each data byte containing the 6-bit health from almanac page 25.
Byte

Item

Type

Health of satellite #1

bit field

Health of satellite #1

bit field

Health of satellite #1

bit field

Health of satellite #31 bit field

Report Packet 0x4A: Single Precision LLA Position Fix
The packet provides current GPS position fix in LLA (latitude, longitude, and altitude)
coordinates. If the I/O position option is set to "LLA" and the I/O precision of position
output is set to single precision, then the receiver sends this packet each time a fix is
computed. The data format is shown below:
Byte

Item

Type

Units

0-3

Latitude

Single

radians: + for north, - for south

4-7

Longitude

Single

radians: + for east, - for west

8-11

Altitude

Single

meters

12-15

Clock Bias

Single

meters

16-19

Time-of-fix

Single

seconds

The LLA conversion is done according to the datum selected using packet 0x8E-15.
The default is WGS-84. Altitude is referred to the datum or the MSL Geoid, depending
on which I/O LLA altitude option is selected with packet 0x35. The time of fix is in GPS
time or UTC, depending on which I/O timing option is selected.

CAUTION – When converting from radians to degrees, significant and readily visible
errors will be introduced by use of an insufficiently precise approximation for the
constant p (pi). The value of a constant p as specified in ICD-GPS-200 is 3.1415926535898.

CAUTION – The MSL option is only valid with the WGS-84 datum. When using other
datums, only the HAE option is valid.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Report Packet 0x4B: Receiver Health
This packet provides receiver health status.
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

Machine ID

UINT8

Receiver Machine ID

RTC Time validity

Bit pattern

Bit 1

0 = RTC time valid
1 = RTC time not valid

Bit 3

0 = Almanac not complete
1 = Almanac collection complete

1
0

Superpackets supported
Superpackets not supported

TSIP Superpacket
support

UNIT8

Report Packet 0x55: I/O Options
This packet provides the current I/O option states in response to packet 0x35 request.
The data format is the same as for packet 0x35, see Command Packet 0x35: Set or
Request I/O Options, page 45.
Report Packet 0x56: Velocity Fix, East-North-Up (ENU)
If East-North-Up (ENU) coordinates have been selected for the I/O "velocity" option,
the receiver sends this packet each time that a fix is computed or in response to packet
0x37. The data format for this packet is shown below.
Byte

Item

Type

Units

0-3

East Velocity

Single

m/s; + for east, - for west

4-7

North Velocity

Single

m/s; + for north, - for south

8-11

Up velocity

Single

m/s; + for up, - for down

12-15

Clock bias rate

Single

m/s

16-19

Time-of-fix

Single

seconds

Note – The time-of-fix is in GPS or UTC time as selected by the I/O "timing" option.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Report Packet 0x57: Information about Last Computed Fix
This packet provides information concerning the time and origin of the previous
position fix. The receiver sends this packet, among others, in response to packet 0x37.
The data format for this packet is shown below.
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

Source of info

UINT8

0
1

Old fix
New fix

Fix mode

UINT8

No previous fix

Time only 1-SV

2D clock hold (not used)

Over-Determined Clock

DGPS reference (not used)

2-5

Time of last fix

Single

Seconds GPS time

6-7

Week of last fix

UINT16

Weeks

Report Packet 0x58: GPS System Data from the Receiver
This packet provides GPS data (almanac, ephemeris, etc.). The GPS receiver sends this
packet in response to packet 0x38. The data format is shown below. The table and
section numbers referred to in the "Meaning" column reference the Global Positioning
System Standard Positioning Service Signal Specification document.
Report Packet 0x58 Data Format
Byte

Item

Type

operation

UINT8

Type of data

UINT8

Sat PRN #

UINT8

Length (n)

UINT8

4 to n+3

Data

Value

Meaning

Data out

no data on SV

Almanac

Health page, T_oa, WN_oa

Ionosphere

UTC

Ephemeris

Data that is not satellite ID-specific

1 to 32

Satellite PRN number
Byte count

Note – If data is not available, byte 3 is set to 0 and no data is sent

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Report Packet 0x58 Almanac Data Type 2
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

Toa (raw)

UINT8

Table 2.8

SV_HEALTH

UINT8

Table 2.8

6-9

Single

Table 2.8

10-13

toa

Single

Table 2.8

14-17

Single

Table 2.8

18-21

OMEGADOT

Single

Table 2.8

22-25

sqrt(A)

Single

Table 2.8

26-29

(OMEGA)0

Single

Table 2.8

30-33

(OMEGA)

Single

Table 2.8

34-37

Single

Table 2.8

38-41

af0

Single

Table 2.8

42-45

af1

Single

Table 2.8

46-49

Axis

Single

Table 2.8

50-53

Single

Table 2.8

54-57

OMEGA_n

Single

Derived

58-61

ODOT_n

Single

Derived

62-65

tzc

Single

Time of collection (set to -1.0 if
there is no data available)

66-67

week number

UINT16

GPS week number

68-69

WNa

UINT16

Sec 2.4.5.2.3

Note – All angles are in radians.
Report Packet 0x58 Almanac Health Data Type 3
Byte

Item

Type

Meaning

Week number for health

UINT8

Sec 2.4.5.3

5-36

SV health

UINT8

Sec 2.4.5.3

toa for health

UINT8

Sec 2.4.5.2.3

current toa

UINT8

Time of collection

39-40

current week number

UINT16

Time of collection

Report Packet 0x58 Ionosphere Data Type 4

Byte

Item

Type

Meaning

4-11

not used

12-15

Single

Sec 2.4.5.6

16-19

Single

Sec 2.4.5.6

20-23

Single

Sec 2.4.5.6

24-27

Single

Sec 2.4.5.6

28-31

Single

Sec 2.4.5.6

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Byte

Item

Type

Meaning

32-35

Single

Sec 2.4.5.6

36-39

Single

Sec 2.4.5.6

40-43

Single

Sec 2.4.5.6

Report Packet 0 x 58 UTC Data Type 5 (continued)
Byte

Item

4-16

not used

Type

Meaning

17-24

Double

Sec 2.4.5.5

25-28

Single

Sec 2.4.5.5

29-30

DtLS

SINT16

Sec 2.4.5.5

31-34

tot

Single

Sec 2.4.5.5

35-36

WNt

UINT16

Sec 2.4.5.5

37-38

WNLSF

UINT16

Sec 2.4.5.5

39-40

UINT16

Sec 2.4.5.5

41-42

DtLSf

SINT16

Sec 2.4.5.5

Report Packet 0 x 58 Ephemeris Data Type 5
Byte

Item

Type

Meaning

SV number

UINT8

SV PRN number

5-8

t_ephem

Single

Time of collection (seconds)

9-10

week number

UINT16

GPS week number 0 through 1023

retired

SV accuracy raw UINT8

URA index of SV (0 through 15)

SV health

UINT8

6 bit health code

15-16

IODC

UINT16

Issue of data clock

17-20

tGD

Single

L1-L2 correction term

21-24

toc

Single

Sec 20.4.3.5

25-28

af2

Single

Sec 2.4.3.6

29-32

af1

Single

Sec 2.4.3.6

33-36

afo

Single

Sec 2.4.3.6

37-40

SV accuracy

Single

URA of SV

IODE

UINT8

Issue of data ephemeris

retired

43-46

Crs

Single

Table 2.5

47-50

Single

Table 2.5

51-58

Double

Table 2.5

59-62

Cuc

Single

Table 2.5

63-70

Double

Table 2.5

71-74

CUS

Single

Table 2.5

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Byte

Item

Type

Meaning

75-82

sqrt(A)

Double

Table 2.5

83-86

toe

Single

Table 2.5

87-90

Cic

Single

Table 2.5

91-98

(OMEGA)0

Double

Table 2.5

99-102

Cis

Single

Table 2.5

103-110

Double

Table 2.5

111-114

Crc

Single

Table 2.5

115-122

(OMEGA)

Double

Table 2.5

123-126

OMEGADOT

Single

Table 2.5

127-130

IDOT

Single

Table 2.5

131-138

Axis

Double

139-146

Double

147-154

r1me2

Double

= sqrt(1.0-e2)

155-162

OMEGA_n

Double

Derived from OMEGA_0, OMEGADOT

163-170

ODOT_n

Double

Derived from OMEGADOT

Note – All angles are in radians. Reference numbers refer to Global Positioning System
Standard Positioning Service Signal Specification. This specification is currently available
in Adobe Acrobat format at www.navcen.uscg.gov/pubs/gps/sigspec/.
Report Packet 0x59: Status of Satellite Disable or Ignore Health
This packet is sent in response to command packet 0x39.
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

Operation

UINT8

The remaining bytes tell whether the
receiver has enabled each satellite for
selection.

The remaining bytes tell whether the
receiver heeds or ignores each satellite's
health as a criterion for selection.

Enable satellite selection or heed satellite's
health.

Disable satellite selection or ignore
satellite's health.

1 to 32

Sat PRN

UINT8 (1
per SV)

Report Packet 0x5A: Raw Data Measurement Data
Packet 0x5A provides raw GPS measurement data. This packet is sent in response to
packet 0x3A or automatically if enabled with packet 0x35.

Byte

Item

Type

SV PRN number

UINT8

1-4

Sample length

Single

milliseconds

5-8

Signal level

Single

AMU or dB-Hz

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Units

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Byte

Item

Type

Units

9-12

Code phase

Single

1/16th chip

13-16

Doppler

Single

Hertz @ L1

17-24

Time of measurement Double

seconds

Note – The sample length is the number of milliseconds over which the sample was
averaged.
Note – The code phase value is the average delay over the sample interval of the received
C/A code, and is measured with respect to the receiver's millisecond timing reference.
Report Packet 0x5B: Satellite Ephemeris Status
Packet 0x5B provides satellite ephemeris status. This packet is sent in response to
packet 0x3B.
Byte

Item

Type

SV PRN number

UINT8

Units

1-4

Time of collection

Single

Health

UINT8

IODE

UINT8

7-10

toe

Single

Fit interval flag

UINT8

12-15

SV accuracy (URA)

Single

seconds

seconds
meters

Report Packet 0x5C: Satellite Tracking Status
The receiver sends this packet in response to command packet 0x3C.
Byte

Bit

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

SV PRN number

UINT8

1-32

PRN

0:2

slot number

bit field

000

Not used

3:7

channel number

bit field

0000

Channel 1

0001

Channel 2

0010

Channel 3

0011

Channel 4

0100

Channel 5

0101

Channel 6

0110

Channel 7

0111

Channel 8

1000

Channel 9

1001

Channel 10

1010

Channel 11

1011

Channel 12

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Byte
2

Bit

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

acquisition flag

UNIT8

Never acquired

Acquired

Re-opened search

Flag not set

Good ephemeris

ephemeris flag

UNIT8

4-7

signal level

Single

8-11

time of last
measurement

Single

12-15

elevation angle

Single

16-19

azimuth angle

Single

old measurement flag UINT8

integer msec flag

bad data flag

data collection flag

UINT8

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

AMU or dBHz
secs

GPS time of week
Radians
Radians

Flag not set

Measurement old

Don't know msec

Known from subframe

Verified by bit crossing

Verified by good fix

Suspect msec error

Flag not set

Bad parity

Bad ephemeris health

Flag not set

Collection in progress

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Report Packet 0x5F-11: EEPROM Segment Status
The receiver sends this packet in response to command packet 0x3F-11. This packet
contains the status of all EEPROM segments:

Byte

Bit

0
1-2

•

A zero in the status bit indicates that the segment contents are valid.

•

A one in the status bit indicates that the segment contents were found to be
corrupt and had to be reverted to their factory default values.

•

Bits 3-9 are used to generate the minor alarm (bit 10) in packet 0x8F-AC.

Item

Type

Value

Subcode

UINT8

0x11

Segment status

bit field

Meaning
Manufacturing data

Unused

Receiver configuration

Packet I/O control

Serial port configuration

Timing outputs

Accurate position

Self-survey configuration

Oscillator Disciplining parameters

10-15

Unused

Report Packet 0x6D: Satellite Selection List
This packet provides a list of satellites used for position or time-only fixes by the GPS
receiver. The packet also provides the PDOP, HDOP, VDOP and TDOP of that set and
provides the current mode (automatic or manual, 3-D or 2-D, Over-Determined Clock
mode, etc.). This packet has variable length equal to 17+nsvs where "nsvs" is the
number of satellites used in the solution. If an SV is rejected for use by the T-RAIM
algorithm then the SV PRN value will be negative.
The GPS receiver sends this packet in response to packet 0x24 or automatically. The
data format is shown below.
Byte

Bit

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

0:2

fix dimension

bit field

1D clock fix

2D fix

3D fix

OD clock fix

Auto

Manual

0-12

Count

3
4:7

fix mode

bit field

Number of SVs in fix

bit field

1-4

PDOP

Single

PDOP

5-8

HDOP

Single

HDOP

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Byte

Bit

Item

Type

9-12

VDOP

Single

13-16

TDOP

Single

17 - n

SV PRN

SINT8

Value

Meaning
VDOP
TDOP

± (1-32)

PRN

Command Packet 0x70: Filter Configuration
This packet provides control for the available filters. The PV filter smoothes position
data when the antenna is moving and attempts to reduce the effects of position
disturbances, which include reflected signals and small outages of DGPS corrections.
Command Packet 0x70 enables or disables the P/V Filter, Static Filter, Altitude Filter,
Kalman filter. Filter selection is restricted by the following:
•

The PV filter must be turned on before the Static Filter can operate.

•

The Kalman filter takes precedence, i.e., enabling the Kalman filter will disable
the PV, Static, and Altitude filters

To request the filter operation state, send Command Packet 0x70 with no data bytes.
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

PV filter

UINT8

0
1

Off
On

Static filter

UINT8

0
1

Off
On

Altitude filter

UINT8

0
1

Off
On

Kalman filter

UINT8

0
1

Off
On

Report Packet 0x70: Filter Configuration
This packet reports the current configuration for the available filters.

Byte

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

PV filter

UINT8

0
1

Off
On

Static filter

UINT8

0
1

Off
On

Altitude filter

UINT8

0
1

Off
On

Kalman filter

UINT8

0
1

Off
On

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Report Packet 0x83: Double Precision XYZ
This packet provides current GPS position fix in XYZ ECEF coordinates. If the I/O
"position" option is set to "XYZ ECEF" and the I/O double position option is selected,
the receiver sends this packet each time a fix is computed. The data format is shown
below.
Byte

Item

Type

Units

0-7

Double

meters

8-15

Double

meters

16-23

Double

meters

24-31

clock bias

Double

meters

32-35

time-of-fix

Single

seconds

Note – The time-of-fix is in GPS time or UTC, as selected by the I/O "timing" option. Packet
0x42 provides a single-precision version of this information.
Report Packet 0x84: Double Precision LLA Position (Fix and Bias
Information)
This packet provides current GPS position fix in LLA coordinates. If the I/O "position"
option is set to "LLA" and the double position option is selected (see packet 0x35), the
receiver sends this packet each time a fix is computed.
Byte

Item

Type

Units

0-7

latitude

Double

radians: + for north, - for south

8-15

longitude

Double

radians: + for east, - for west

16-23

altitude

Double

meters

24-31

clock bias

Double

meters

32-35

time-of-fix

Single

seconds

Note – The time-of-fix is in GPS time or UTC time as selected by the I/O "timing" option.

CAUTION – When converting from radians to degrees, significant and readily visible
errors will be introduced by use of an insufficiently precise approximation for the
constant p. The value of the constant p as specified in ICD-GPS-200 is 3.1415926535898.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Command Packet 0xBB: Set Receiver Configuration
In query mode, packet 0xBB is sent with a single data byte and returns report packet
0xBB in the format shown below.
Command Packet 0xBB Data Format (query only)
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

Subcode

UINT8

Query mode

TSIP packet 0xBB is used to set the GPS Receiver options. The table below lists the
individual fields within the 0xBB packet.
Report Packet 0xBB Data Format

Byte

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

Subcode

UINT8

Primary receiver configuration
block

receiver mode

UINT8

Automatic (2D/3D)

Single satellite (1 SV time)

Horizontal (2D)

Full position (3D)

Over-Determined Clock

reserved

UINT8

0xFF

do not alter

Dynamics Code

UINT8

Land

Sea

Air

Stationary

Automobile

reserved

UINT8

0xFF

do not alter

5-8

Elevation Mask

Single

0- p/2

Lowest satellite elevation for fixes
(radians)

9-12

AMU Mask

Single

Minimum signal level for fixes

13-16

PDOP Mask

Single

Maximum DOP for fixes

17-20

PDOP Switch

Single

reserved

UINT8

Foliage Mode

UINT8

Switches 2D/3D mode
0xFF

do not alter

Never

Sometimes

Always

reserved

UINT8

0xFF

do not alter

reserved

UINT8

0xFF

do not alter

reserved

UINT8

0xFF

do not alter

reserved

UINT8

0xFF

do not alter

27-39

reserved

UINT8

0xFF

do not alter

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

CAUTION – The operation of ThunderBolt E can be affected adversely if incorrect data is
entered in the fields associated with packet 0xBB.

Note – When sending packet 0xBB, fields that are specified as "do not alter" or if you do not
want to alter a specific field, send a value of 0xFF for UINT8 types and a value of -1.0 for
floating point types. ThunderBolt E will ignore these values.
Command Packet 0xBC: Set Port Configuration
TSIP packet 0xBC is used to set and query the port characteristics. In query mode,
packet 0xBC is sent with a single data byte and returns report packet 0xBC.
Note – The input and output baud rates must be the same.
Command Packet 0 x BC Data Format (Query Mode)
Byte

Item

Type

Port Number UINT8

Value

Meaning

Port 1 (standard)

Port 2 (not available)

0xFF

Current port

The table below lists the individual fields within the packet 0xBC when used in the set
mode and when read in the query mode.
Command and Report Packet 0xBC Field Data Format
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

Port to Change

UINT8

Port 1 (standard)

Port 2 (factory only)

0xFF

Current port

4800 baud

9600 baud

19200 baud

38400 baud

57600 baud

115200 baud

As above

Input Baud Rate

UINT8

Output Baud Rate

UINT8

# Data Bits

UINT8

Parity

# Stop Bits

UINT8

7 bits

8 bits

None

Odd

Even

1 bit

2 bits

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Byte

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

Flow Control

UINT8

None

Input Protocols

UINT8

Output Protocols

UINT8

Reserved

UINT8

None

TSIP

None

TSIP

Reserved

TSIP Superpackets
Several packets have been added to the core TSIP protocol to provide additional
capability for the receivers. In packets 0x8E and their 0x8F responses, the first data
byte is a subcode which indicates the superpacket type. For example, in packet
0x8E-15, 15 is the subcode that indicates the superpacket type. Therefore the ID code
for these packets is 2 bytes long followed by the data.
Command Packet 0x8E-15: Request current Datum values
This packet contains only the subpacket ID, 0x15. The response to this packet is
0x8F-15.
Command Packet 0x8E-26: Write Configuration to NVS
This command packet causes the current configuration settings for all user segments
to be written to NVS.
Note – The ThunderBolt E configuration settings are partitioned into functional areas
(segments) each of which can be saved individually via Command Packet 0x8E-4C or set
to defaults via Command Packet 0x8E-45.
Command Packet 0x8E-41: Request Manufacturing Parameters
This packet is used to request the manufacturing parameters stored in non-volatile
memory. Send this packet with no data bytes (don't forget the subcode) to request
packet 0x8F-41.
Command Packet 0x8E-42: Stored Production Parameters
This packet is used to request the production parameters stored in non-volatile
memory. Send this packet with no data bytes (don't forget the subcode) to request
packet 0x8F-42.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Command Packet 0x8E-45: Revert Configuration Segment to Default
Settings and Write to NVS
This command packet causes the current configuration settings for the specified user
segment (or all segments) to revert to their factory defaults and written to NVS. The
receiver is also re-configured with the default settings. The segment ID is contained in
a data byte.
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

Subcode

UINT8

0x45

Segment ID

UINT8

GPS Receiver config

Packet I/O control

Serial Port config

Timing Output config

Accurate Position

Self-Survey config

Disciplining config

0xFF

All segments

Command Packet 0x8E-4A: Set PPS Characteristics
This packet allows the user to query (by sending the packet with no data bytes) or set
PPS characteristics. The receiver responds to a query or set command with packet
0x8F-4A.
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

Subcode

UINT8

0x4A

PPS driver switch

UINT8

0
1

off
on

Reserved

UINT8

PPS polarity

UINT8

0
1

positive
negative

4-11

PPS offset or cable delay 1

Double

12-15

Bias uncertainty threshold

Single

seconds
300.0

meters

Negative offset values advance the PPS, and are normally used to compensate for cable delay. Useful
values for the PPS offset are between ± 50 ms.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Command Packet 0x8E-4C: Write Configuration Segment to NVS
This command packet causes the current configuration settings for the specified user
segment (or all segments) to be written to NVS. The segment ID is contained in a data
byte.
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Subcode

UINT8

0x4C

Segment ID

UINT8

Meaning

GPS Receiver config

Packet I/O control

Serial Port config

Timing Output config

Accurate Position

Self-Survey config

Disciplining config

0xFF

All segments

Command Packet 0x8E-4E: Set PPS output option
This command packet sets the PPS driver switch to one of the values listed below. The
current driver switch value can be requested by sending the packet with no data bytes
except the subcode byte.
Driver switch values 3 and 4 only make sense in Over-Determined Timing mode. In any
position fix mode the effective choices are always on or during fixes which you get if
you set the driver switch to 3 or 4.
ThunderBolt E can also be configured to generate an Even Second pulse in place of the
PPS pulse by setting the value as shown in the table below.

Byte

Item

Type

Subcode

UINT8

0x4E

PPS driver switch UINT8

0x02

PPS is always on.
PPS is generated every second.

0x03

PPS is output when at least one
satellite is tracking.
PPS is generated every second

0x04

PPS is output when at least three
satellites are tracking.
PPS is generated every second

0x82

PPS is always on.
PPS is generated every even second.

0x83

PPS is output when at least one
satellite is tracking.
PPS is generated every even second.

0x84

PPS is output when at least three
satellites are tracking.
PPS is generated every even second.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Value

Meaning

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Command Packet 0x8E-A0: Set DAC Value
Use command packet 0x8E-A0 to set the DAC output voltage or to request the current
DAC output voltage plus the parameters describing the DAC. The DAC output voltage
is used to control the frequency of the OCXO (Oven Controlled Crystal Oscillator.)
Send this packet with no data to request the DAC voltage. The receiver responds with
packet 0x8F-A0.
The Command Packet Data Fields are as follows:
Field

Description

Voltage/Value flag

Use this field to specify that the DAC is to be 0: Set DAC by voltage
set either by value or by voltage.
1: Set DAC by value

Setting

DAC Voltage Value:

Voltage: 0.0 V to +4.0 V
When the Voltage/Value Flag is set to
voltage, use this field to specify the numeric Value: 0x00000 to
value of the DAC as the 32-bit unsigned
0xFFFFF (20 bits)
number.

To set the DAC voltage, send packet 0x8E-A0 in the format shown below.
Note – Oscillator disciplining must be disabled (see packet 0x8E-A3) to use this command
to set the DAC voltage.
Command Packet 0x8E-A0 Data Format
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Subcode

UINT8

0xA0

Voltage /Value Flag

UINT8

0
1

2-5

DAC Voltage/ Value Single/UINT3 2

Description
Set DAC voltage
Set DAC value
DAC voltage/Value

Command Packet 0x8E-A2: UTC/GPS Timing
Command packet 0x8E-A2 sets the UTC/GPS timing mode (time and date fields) in
packet 0x8F-AB, and the temporal location of ThunderBolt E output PPS. Send packet
0x8E-A2 with no data to request the current settings. The receiver replies with
response packet 0x8F- A2.
Byte

Bit

0
1

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

Subcode

UINT8

0xA2

UTC/GPS
time

bit field

0
1

GPS time/date in packet 0x8F-AB
UTC time/date in packet 0x8F-AB

bit field

0
1

PPS referenced to GPS time
PPS referenced to UTC time

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Command Packet 0x8E-A3: Issue Oscillator Disciplining Command
Use command packet 0x8E-A3 to issue an oscillator disciplining command. The
receiver responds with packet 0x8F-A3 in the same format as packet 0x8E-A3.
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Description

Subcode

UINT8

0xA3

Disciplining Command

UINT8

Place PPS on time (jam sync)

Transition to recovery state

Transition to manual holdover

Transition from manual holdover

Disable oscillator disciplining

Enable oscillator disciplining.

Command Packet 0x8E-A4: Test Modes
ThunderBolt E provides a test mode of operation that allows the user to set the time
and UTC parameters. Packet 0x8F-AC provides a status bit (minor alarm bit 8) to warn
the user that ThunderBolt E is operating in a test mode. The receiver replies with
response packet 8F-A4.
Note – Test mode 3 does not actually cause the receiver to enter a test mode, but instead
provides a means for the user to send UTC parameters to the receiver that will be used in
test mode 1.
Test mode

Data field

Description

Test mode

Set this field to 0 to exit test mode and return the receiver to
normal operations. A reset or power cycle will also cause the
receiver to exit test mode.

Test mode

Setting this field to 1 tells the receiver to enter the user time test
mode. The receiver will set the time to the week number and
TOW sent with this packet. The receiver will then increment this
time once per second. The time in packet 8F-AB will show the
user test time, but all other packets that have time fields will be
unaffected.

Week
number

This field contains the week number for the user time test mode.

Time-ofWeek

This field contains the TOW for the user time test mode.

Note – For a more detailed description of UTC parameters, see GPS SPS Signal
Specification
Test Mode

Setting this field to 3 tells the receiver that the following fields
contain the user UTC parameters that are to be used while in test
mode 1.

A_0

This field is the fractional second offset of GPS from UTC at the
reference time in seconds.

A_1

This field is the rate of change of fractional second offset of GPS
from UTC in seconds/second.

delta_t_LS

Current integer leap seconds.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Test mode

Data field

Description

t_ot

This field is the reference time-of-week for the A_0/A_1
parameters.

WN_t

This field is the reference week number for the A_0/A_1
parameters.

WN_LSF

This field is the week number of a future leap second event.

This field is the day number of a future leap second event.

delta_t_LSF

This field is the integer number of future leap seconds.

Command Packet 0x8E-A4 Test Mode 0 Data Format
Byte

Item

Type

Description

Subcode

UINT8

0xA4

Test Mode

UINT8

0 = Exit test mode

Command Packet 0x8E-A4 Test 1 Mode 1Data Format
Byte

Item

Type

Description

Subcode

UINT8

0xA4

Test Mode

UINT8

1 = Set absolute time, ignore GPS time

2-3

Week Number

UINT16

Week number (0-1023)

4-7

Time of Week

UINT32

Seconds (0-604799)

Command Packet 0x8E-A4 Test Mode 3 Data Format
Byte

Item

Type

Description

Subcode

UINT8

0xA4

Test Mode

UINT8

3 = Send user UTC parameter

2-5

A_0

Single

Seconds

6-9

A_1

Single

Seconds/second

10-11

delta_t_LS

SINT16

Seconds

12-15

t_ot

UINT32

Seconds

16-17

WN_t

UINT16

Week number

18-19

WN_LSF

UINT16

Week number

20-21

UINT16

Day number (1-7)

22-23

delta_t_LSF

SINT16

Seconds

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Command Packet 0x8E-A5: Packet Broadcast Mask
Use command packet 8E-A5 to set the packet broadcast masks or to request the
current mask settings. The receiver replies to requests with response packet 8F-A5. The
broadcast mask is bitwise encoded to allow the user to turn on and off the broadcast of
certain packets. For each bit in the mask that is used, the coding is as follows:
0: Turn off broadcast of this packet
1: Turn on broadcast of this packet
Byte

Bit

0
1-2

Item

Type

Description

Subcode

UINT8

0xA5

Mask 0

bit field

8F-AB, Primary Timing Information

Reserved

8F-AC, Supplemental Timing Information

Reserved

Automatic Output Packets

3-4

Mask 2

bit field

Reserved

Command Packet 0x8E-A6: Self-Survey Command
Use command packet 8E-A6 to issue a self-survey command to save the current
position in flash, or to delete the position saved in flash. There is no response to this
packet.

Byte

Item

Type

Value

Subcode

UINT8

0xA6

Self-survey
command

UINT8

0
1
2

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Meaning
Restart self-survey
Save position to flash
Delete position from flash

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Command Packet 0x8E-A8: Set or Request Disciplining Parameters
This packet allows the user to change key disciplining parameters in the receiver. It is
usually intended to be used only when instructed by the factory. Incorrect use of this
packet will most likely cause timing outputs to be degraded severely. However, the
"Type 2" (Recovery Mode) parameters are intended to be set by the user to suit the
application. Send this packet with the type field only to request the current settings.
The receiver replies to sets and requests with the packet 0x8F A8.
Type

Data field

Description

Type

A zero in this field indicates that the packet contains loop
dynamics information.

Time Constant

This field carries the time constant of the disciplining control
loop

Damping Factor This field carries the damping of the disciplining control loop.
1

Type

A "1" in this field indicates that the packet contains 10MHz
oscillator parameters.

EXCO Constant

This field carries the OCXO constant into Hz/Volt.
The receiver determines this value automatically during a
calibration step run during the Power-Up mode following a reset
or power cycle. This value is therefore ignored by the
Thunderbolt E.

This field carries the minimum (most negative) control voltage
OCXO
that can be applied to the 10 MHz oscillator's control voltage
Minimum
Control Voltage input.
This field carries the maximum (most positive) control voltage
OCXO
that can be applied to the 10 MHz oscillator's control voltage
Maximum
Control Voltage input.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Type

Data field

Description

Type

A "2" in this field indicates that the packet contains Recovery
Mode parameters. These parameters allow the user to control
the recovery process. During Recovery, The receiver will remove
any PPS offset accumulated during periods of Holdover by either
shifting the PPS into alignment or by shifting the frequency of
the 10 MHz oscillator by a specified amount until the PPS has
slewed back into alignment or by using both methods. The
following two parameters control these methods:
• If a fast recovery is desired, allow jam syncs to be used
• If it is important to maintain 10 million clock cycles per PPS
pulse, then disable jam syncs and set the maximum frequency
offset to a tolerable value.

Jam Sync
Threshold

This field carries the jam sync threshold in nanoseconds used
during Recovery mode. While in Recovery Mode, if the PPS offset
is above this threshold, The receiver will automatically perform a
jam sync to shift the PPS into alignment with GPS. The minimum
allowed value is 50 nanoseconds. Setting a value less than or
equal to 0 nanoseconds will disable automatic jam syncs during
Recovery (though the user can still issue a jam sync command
with packet 0x8E-A3).

Maximum
Frequency
Offset

This field carries the maximum allowable frequency offset in ppb
(parts per billion, or 1x10-9) of the 10 MHz oscillator during
Recovery Mode. While in Recovery Mode, The receiver will
remove any PPS offset accumulated during periods of Holdover
by shifting the frequency of the oscillator by an amount up to
the value specified. The minimum allowed value is 5ppb.

Type

A "3" in this field indicates that the packet contains the initial
DAC voltage parameter.

Initial DAC
voltage

At reset, the oscillator's frequency control voltage is set to this
value

Command Packet 0x8E-A8 Type 0 Data Format
Byte

Item

Type

Description

Subcode

UINT8

0xA8

Type

UINT8

0 = loop dynamics

2-5

Time Constant

Single

Seconds

6-9

Damping Factor

Single

Dimensionless

Command Packet 0x8E-A8 Type 1 Data Format

Byte

Item

Type

Description

Subcode

UINT8

0xA8

Type

UINT8

1 = oscillator parameters

2-5

Oscillator Gain Constant

Single

Hz/Volt

6-9

Minimum Control Voltage

Single

Volts

10-13

Maximum Control Voltage

Single

Volts

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Command Packet 0x8E-A8 Type 2 Data Format
Byte

Item

Type

Description

Subcode

UINT8

0xA8

Type

UINT8

2 = recovery mode parameters

2-5

Jam Sync Threshold

Single

nanoseconds

6-9

Maximum Frequency Offset

Single

ppb (parts per billion or 1x10-9)

Command Packet 0x8E-A8 Type 3 Data Format
Byte

Item

Type

Description

Subcode

UINT8

0xA8

Type

UINT8

3 = initial DAC voltage

2-5

Initial DAC voltage

Single

Volts

Command Packet 0x8E-A9: Self-Survey Parameters
Use command packet 8E-A9 to set the self-survey parameters or to request the current
settings. The receiver replies to requests with response packet 8F-A9.
Data field

Description

Self-Survey Enable

Use this field to enabled or disabled the self-survey mechanism.
0: Disable the self-survey mechanism
1: Enable the self-survey mechanism

Position Save Flag

Use this field to tell the self-survey mechanism to automatically save (or
to not save) the self-surveyed position at the end of the self-survey
procedure. This flag also determines how the The receiver will respond
to the saved position it is using for Over-Determined Clock Mode when
the position appears questionable (i.e. if the position may off by a
large amount.) If the flag is set to 0, then a questionable position will
be flagged in packet 0x8F-AC. If the flag is set to 1, then a questionable
position will automatically be deleted.
0: Don't automatically save the surveyed position when self-survey is
complete
1: Automatically save the surveyed position when self-survey is
complete.

Self-Survey Length

Use this field to specify the number of position fixes that are to be
averaged together to form the self-surveyed position used for clockonly fixes. Limits: 1 to (232 - 1) fixes.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Command Packet 8E-A9 Data Format
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Subcode

UINT8

0xA9

Self-Survey Enable UINT8

0
1

Disabled
Enabled

Position Save Flag

0
1

Don't save position
Save self-surveyed position at the end of
the survey

3-6

Self-Survey Length UINT32 see above Number of fixes

7-10

Reserved

UINT8

UINT32 0

Description

Command Packet 0x8E-AB: Request Primary Timing Packet
Use command packet 0x8E-AB to request the Primary Timing packet 0x8F-AB. By
default, the receiver automatically sends packet 0x8F-AB once per second so it is not
necessary to request it. To receive 0x8F-AB information by request only, use packet
0x8E-A5 to disable the automatic output.
The Request Type item determines how the receiver will reply to this command:
Type

Description

The most current primary timing values will be sent in packet 0x8F-AB immediately.

The response is not sent immediately. Instead packet 0x8F-AB is sent after the next
PPS output. This is the same time that the packet would be automatically sent if
enabled.

Same as type 1 except that both 0x8F-AB and 0x8F-AC are sent after the next PPS
output.

Command Packet 0x8E-AB Data Format

Byte

Item

Type

Value

Subcode

UINT8

0xAB

Request type

UINT8

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Meaning

Send 0x8F-AB immediately

Send 0x8F-AB on-time next second

Send 0x8F-AB and 0x8F-AC on-time next
second

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Command Packet 0x8E-AC: Request Supplementary Timing Packet
Use command packet 8E-AC to request the Supplemental Timing packet 0x8F-AC. By
default, the receiver automatically sends packet 0x8F-AC once per second so it is not
necessary to request it. To receive 0x8F-AC information by request only, use packed
0x8E-A5 to disable the automatic output.
The Request Type item determines how the receiver will reply to this command:
Type

Description

The most current primary timing values will be sent in packet 0x8F-AC immediately.

The response is not sent immediately. Instead packet 0x8F-AC is sent after the next
PPS output. This is the same time that the packet would be automatically sent if
enabled.

Same as type 1 except that both 0x8F-AB and 0x8F-AC are sent after the next PPS
output.

Command Packet 0x8E-AC Data Format
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Meaning

Subcode

UINT8

0xAC

Request type

UINT8

Send 0x8F-AC immediately

Send 0x8F-AC on-time next second

Send 0x8F-AB and 0x8F-AC on-time next
second

Report Packet 0x8F-15 Current Datum Values
This packet contains the values for the datum currently in use and is sent in response
to packet 8E-15. If a built-in datum is being used, both the datum index and the five
double-precision values for that index are returned. If the receiver is operating on a
custom user-entered datum, the datum index is set to -1 and the five values are
displayed. These five values describe an ellipsoid to convert ECEF XYZ coordinate
system into LLA.
Byte

Type

Value

Super Packet ID

1-2

Datum index (-1 for custom)

Datum Index

Description

3-10

DOUBLE

meters

11-18

DOUBLE

meters

19-26

DOUBLE

meters

27-34

DOUBLE

A-axis

meters

35-42

DOUBLE

Eccentricity squared

none

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Report Packet 0x8F-41: Stored Manufacturing Operating Parameters
This packet is sent in response to a command 0x8E-41.
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Subcode

UINT8

0x41

1-2

Reserved

UINT16

3-6

Board serial
number

UINT32

Year of build

UINT8

Month of build

UINT8

Day of build

UINT8

Hour of build

UINT8

11-14

Reserved

Single

15-16

Reserved

UINT16

Report Packet 0x8F-42: Stored Production Parameters
This packet is sent in response to 0x8E-42.
Byte

Item

Type

Value

Subcode

UINT8

0x42

Reserved

UINT8

Reserved

UINT8

3-4

Reserved

UINT16

5-8

Reserved

UINT32

9-12

Reserved

UINT32

13-14

Reserved

UINT16

15-16

Reserved

UINT16

17-18

Reserved

UINT16

Report Packet 0x8F-4A: Set PPS Characteristics
This is sent in response to a query by packet 0x8E-4A. See the corresponding
command packet for information about the data format.
Report Packet 0x8F-4E: PPS Output
This report packet is output after the command packet 8E-4E has been executed. See
the corresponding command packet for information about the data format.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Report Packet 0x8F-A0: DAC Value
This packet is sent in response to packet 0x8E-A0.
Data field

Description

DAC Value:

The current numeric value of the DAC.

DAC Voltage

The current output voltage of the DAC in Volts.

DAC Resolution

The number of bits used in the DAC.

DAC Data Format

The format of the DAC value.
Minimum DAC Voltage: The minimum (most negative) voltage that the
DAC can produce.
Maximum DAC Voltage: The maximum (most positive) voltage that the
DAC can produce

Report Packet 0x8F-A0 Data Format
Byte

Item

Type

Value

0
1-4

Subcode

UINT8

0xA0

DAC Value

UINT32

Description
Value

5-8

DAC Voltage

Single

Volts

DAC Resolution

UINT8

Number of bits

DAC data format

UINT8

11-14

Min DAC voltage

Single

Volts

15-18

Max DAC voltage Single

Volts

Offset binary

2's complement

Report Packet 0x8F-A2: UTC/GPS Timing
This packet is sent in response to command packet 0x8E-A2. See the corresponding
command packet for information about the data format.
Report Packet 0x8F-A3: Oscillator Disciplining Command
This packet is sent in response to command packet 0x8E-A3. See the corresponding
command packet for information about the data format.
Report Packet 0x8F-A4: Test Modes
This packet is sent in response to command packet 0x8E-A4. See the corresponding
command packet for information about the data format.
Report Packet 0x8F-A5: Packet Broadcast Mask
This packet is sent in response to 0x8E-A5 command and describes which packets are
currently automatically broadcast. A '0' in a bit field turns off broadcast, and a '1' in a bit
field enables broadcast. See the corresponding command packet for information about
the data format.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Report Packet 0x8F-A6: Self-Survey Command
This packet is sent in response to command packet 0x8E-A6. See the corresponding
command packet for information about the data format.
Report Packet 0x8F-A8: Oscillator Disciplining Parameters
This packet is sent in response to command packet 0x8E-A8. See the corresponding
command packet for information about the data format.
Report Packet 0x8F-A9: Self-Survey Parameters
Packet 0x8F-A9 is sent in response to command packet 0x8E-A9 and describes the
current self-survey parameters. See the corresponding command packet for
information about the data format.
Report Packet 0x8F-AB:Primary Timing Packet
This packet provides time information once per second. GPS week number, GPS timeof-week (TOW), UTC integer offset, time flags, date and time-of-day (TOD)
information is provided. This packet can be requested or enabled for automatic
broadcast once per second. If enabled, this packet will be transmitted shortly after the
PPS pulse to which it refers.

Data field

Description

Time of Week

This field represents the number of seconds since Sunday at 00:00:00 GPS
time for the current GPS week. Time of week is often abbreviated as TOW.

Week Number

This field represents the current GPS week number. GPS week number 0
started on January 6, 1980.

UTC Offset

This field represents the current integer leap second offset between GPS
and UTC according to the relationship: Time (UTC) = Time (GPS) - UTC Offset.
The UTC offset information is reported to the receiver by the GPS system
and can take up to 12.5 minutes to obtain. Before the receiver has received
UTC information from the GPS system, it is only capable of representing
time in the GPS time scale, and the UTC offset will be shown as 0.

Timing Flags:

This field is bitwise encoded to provide information about the timing
outputs. Unused bits are should be ignored.
•

Bit 0: When 0, the date and time fields broadcast in packet 8F-AB are in
the GPS time scale. When 1, these fields are in the UTC time scale and are
adjusted for leap seconds. Use command packet 8E-A2 to select either
GPS or UTC time scales.

•

Bit 1: When 0, the PPS output is aligned to GPS. When 1, the PPS output
is aligned to UTC. Use command packet 8E-A2 to select either GPS or UTC
PPS alignment.

•

Bit 2: When 0, time has been set from GPS. When 1, time has net yet
been set from GPS.

•

Bit 3: When 0, UTC offset information has been received. When 1, UTC
offset information is not yet known.

•

Bit 4: When 0, time is coming from GPS. When 1, The receiver is in a test
mode and time is being generated by the test mode selected by the user.
See packet 8E-A4, Test Modes.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Data field

Description

Time of Day

The time of day is sent in hours-minutes-seconds format and varies from
00:00:00 to 23:59:59, except when time is in UTC and a leap second insertion
occurs. In this case the time will transition from 23:59:59 to 23:59:59 to
00:00:00. Use command packet 8E-A2 to select either the GPS or UTC time
scale.

Date

The date is sent in day-month-year format. Use command packet 8E A2 to
select either the GPS or UTC time scale.

Report Packet 0x8F-AB
Byte

Bit

Item

Type

Subcode

UINT8

0xAB

1-4

Time of week

UINT32

GPS seconds of week

5-6

Week Number

UINT16

GPS Week Number

UTC Offset

SINT16

Timing Flag

bit field

7-8
9

Value

Description

UTC Offset (seconds)
0
1

GPS time
UTC time

0
1

GPS PPS
UTC PPS

0
1

time is set
time is not set

0
1

have UTC info
no UTC info

0
1

time from GPS
time from user

0-59

Seconds

UINT8

Minutes

UINT8

0-59

Minutes

Hours

UINT8

0-23

Hours

Day of Month

UINT8

1-31

Day of Month

Month

UINT8

1-12

Month of Year

15-16

Year

UINT16

Four digits of Year

Report Packet 0x8F-AC: Supplemental Timing Packet
This packet provides supplemental timing information once per second. Information
regarding position, unit status and health, and the operational state of the unit is
provided. This packet can be requested or enabled for automatic broadcast once per
second. When enabled, this packet is transmitted once per second shortly after packet
0x8F-AB.
The position sent in packet 0x8F-AC depends on the Receiver Operating Mode and on
self-survey activity. When a self-survey is in progress, the position sent is the running
average of all of the position fixes collected so far. When the self-survey ends or
whenever the receiver is using a time-only operating mode, then the position sent is

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

the accurate position the receiver is using to perform time-only fixes. When the selfsurvey is disabled or otherwise inactive and the receiver is using a position fix
operating mode, then the position sent is the position fix computed on the last second.
Data field

Description

Receiver Mode

This field shows the fix mode that the GPS receiver is currently configured for. The
receiver spends most of its time in the Over-Determined Clock Mode where it uses all
available satellites to perform the best time-only fix possible. See packet 0xBB for a
description of all available receiver modes.

Self-Survey Progress

When a self-survey procedure is in progress, this field shows the progress of the survey as
a percentage of fixes collected so far. The self-survey will be complete when the selfsurvey progress reaches 100 percent. This field only has meaning while a self-survey is in
progress.

Holdover Duration

When in the Manual or Auto Holdover state, this field shows the amount of time spent in
holdover in seconds. When the unit is not in a holdover state, this field shows the amount
of time the receiver spent the last time it was in a holdover state.

Critical Alarms

This field is bitwise encoded with critical alarms indicators. A critical alarm indicates a
condition that would tend to severely impair the function of the receiver. For each bit, a
value of 0 means that the condition is not indicated. Bits not described below should be
ignored.
Bit4: When 1, indicates that the oscillator control voltage is at a rail. If this condition
persists then the Min-T can no longer bring the frequency of the oscillator into alignment
with GPS and is most likely in need of a new oscillator. This condition should not occur
within 15 years of operation.

Minor Alarms

This field is bitwise encoded with several minor alarm indicators. A minor alarm indicates
a condition that the user should be alerted to, but does not indicate an immediate (or
necessarily any) impairment of functionality. For each bit, a value of 0 means that the
condition is not indicated. Bits not described below should be ignored.

•

Bit 0: When 1, indicates that the oscillator control voltage is near a rail. If this
condition persists, then the oscillator is within 2 years of becoming untunable, at
which point the unit will need a new oscillator. This condition should not occur for at
least 12 years of use and is a result of oscillator crystal aging.

•

Bit 1: When 1, indicates that the antenna input connection is open. More precisely,
this bit indicates that the antenna input is not drawing sufficient current. Normally,
The receiver provides power to the antenna's LNA (Low Noise Amplifier) through the
center conductor of the antenna cable. On-board circuitry senses this current draw,
and if low, this condition will be indicated. However, when the antenna is powered
elsewhere (e.g., when using a splitter) then an antenna open condition is expected
and does not imply a fault nor does it impair the operation of the receiver.

•

Bit 2: When 1, indicates that the antenna input is shorted. More precisely, this bit
indicates that the antenna input is drawing too much current. On-board protection
circuitry prevents any damage to The receiver when its antenna input is shorted to
ground. This condition tends to indicates a fault in either the antenna cable or the
antenna itself.

•

Bit 3: When 1, indicates that no satellites are usable. In order for a satellite to be
usable, it must be tracked long enough to obtain ephemeris and health data.

•

Bit 4: When 1, indicates that the oscillator is not being disciplined to GPS. Before the
Mini- T can begin disciplining the oscillator, it must begin receiving information from
the GPS receiver. This occurs any time that the receiver is performing fixes.

•

Bit 5: When 1, indicates that a self-survey procedure is in progress.

•

Bit 6: When 1, indicates that there is no accurate position stored in flash ROM.

•

Bit 7: When 1, indicates that the GPS system has alerted the receiver that a leap
second transition is pending.

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Data field

Description
•

Bit 8: When 1, indicates that The receiver is operating in one of its test modes (see
packet 0x8E- A4.)

•

Bit 9: When 1, indicates that the accuracy of the position used for time only fixes is
questionable. This alarm may indicate that the unit has been moved since the unit
completed the last self-survey. If this alarm persists, re-survey the position of the unit.

Minor Alarms (cont.) •

Bit 10: When 1, indicates that at reset, one or more EEPROM segments were found to
be corrupt and had to be set to factory default settings. Use packet 0x3F-11 / 5F-11 to
retrieve details about which segments were corrupt and to clear this bit.

GPS Decoding Status This field indicates the decoding status of the GPS receiver.
Disciplining Activity

This field indicates the current activity of the disciplining mechanism.

PPS Offset

This field carries the estimate of the offset of the PPS output relative to UTC or GPS as
reported by the GPS receiver in nanoseconds. Positive values indicate that the receiver's
PPS is coming out late relative to GPS or UTC.

Frequency Offset

This field carries the estimate of the frequency offset of the 10MHz output relative to
UTC or GPS as reported by the GPS receiver in ppb (parts-per-billion.) Positive values
indicate that the receiver's clock is running slow relative to GPS or UTC.

DAC Value

This field shows the numeric value of the DAC used to produce the voltage that controls
the frequency of the 10MHz oscillator.

DAC Voltage

This field shows the voltage output of the DAC.

Temperature

This field shows the temperature (in Celsius) as reported by the receiver's on-board
temperature sensor.

Latitude

This field carries the latitude of the position being shown. The units are in radians and
vary from -pi/2 to +pi/2. Negative values represent southern latitudes. Positive values
represent northern latitudes.

Longitude

This field carries the longitude of the position being shown. The units are in radians and
vary from -pi to +pi. Negative values represent western longitudes. Positive values
represent eastern longitudes.

Altitude

This field carries the altitude of the position being shown. The units are in meters (WGS84.)

PPS Quantization
Error

This field carries the PPS quantization error in units of nanoseconds of an internal PPS
signal. This value is not useful on a ThunderBolt E since the PPS output is derived from a
disciplined oscillator and therefore does not have any quantization error

Report Packet 0x8F-AC
Byte

Item

Subcode

UINT8

0xAC

Receiver Mode

UINT8

Disciplining Mode

Type

Value

UINT8

Description
Automatic (2D/3D)

Single Satellite (Time)

Horizontal (2D)

Full Position (3D)

Over-Determined Clock

Normal (Locked to GPS)

Power Up

Auto Holdover

Manual Holdover

Recovery

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Byte

Item

Type

Value

Description

Not used

Disciplining Disabled

Self-Survey Progress

UINT8

0-100%

4-7

Holdover Duration

UINT32

8-9

Critical Alarms

UINT16

Bit field

Bit 4: DAC at rail

10-11

Minor Alarms

UINT16

Bit field

Bit 0: DAC near rail

Seconds

Bit 1: Antenna open
Bit 2: Antenna shorted
Bit 3: Not tracking satellites
Bit 4: Not disciplining oscillator
Bit 5: Survey-in progress
Bit 6: No stored position
Bit 7: Leap second pending
Bit 8: In test mode
Bit 9: Position is questionable
Bit 10: Not used
Bit 11: Almanac not complete
Bit 12: PPS not generated
12

GPS Decoding Status

Disciplining Activity

UINT8

0x00

Doing fixes

0x01

Don't have GPS time

0x03

PDOP is too high

0x08

No usable sats

0x09

Only 1 usable sat

0x0A

Only 2 usable sats

0x0B

Only 3 usable sats

0x0C

The chosen sat is unusable

0x10

TRAIM rejected the fix

Phase locking

Oscillator warm-up

Frequency locking

Placing PPS

Initializing loop filter

Compensating OCXO (holdover)

Inactive

Not used

Recovery mode

Calibration/control voltage

Spare Status 1

UINT8

Spare Status 2

UINT8

16-19

PPS Offset

Single

20-23

Clock Offset

Single

ppb

24-27

DAC Value

UINT32

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Byte

Item

Type

Value

28-31

DAC Voltage

Single

Description
Volts

32-35

Temperature

Single

degrees C

36-43

Latitude

Double

radians

44-51

Longitude

Double

radians

52-59

Altitude

Double

meters

60-63

PPS Quantization Error Single

64-67

Spare

Future expansion

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

Trimble Standard Interface Protocol

Trimble ThunderBolt E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

NORTH AMERICA
Trimble Navigation Limited
Corporate Headquarters
935 Stewart Drive
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
+1-800-787-4225
+1-408-481-7741
timing@trimble.com

EUROPE
Trimble Navigation Europe
Phone: +49-6142-2100-161

KOREA
Trimble Export Ltd, Korea
Phone: +82 2 555 5361

CHINA
Trimble Navigation Ltd, China
Phone: +86-21-6391-7814

TAIWAN
Trimble Navigation, Taiwan
Phone: +886-02-85096574

www.trimble.com

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Trimble Outdoors Thunderbolt 64057 00 Eng Users Manual E GPS Disciplined Clock User Guide

64057-00-ENG to the manual 4846d621-2f07-47f7-b927-5652752645e3

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