Ken’s Clock Clinic Proudly Announces the Model 1930

Application and Background. For the last 80+ years, this country has produced alternating current (AC) power line voltage at a frequency that is precisely corrected to an average of exactly 60.00000 Hz.  It has been largely taken for granted to the point where most consumers are unaware of it.  But, it has acted as a readily available precision national time standard for us.  It is why electric clocks keep accurate time.  The motors within the clocks synchronously “lock” to this frequency and therefore the timekeeping follows this frequency. Therefore if a clock designed for 50Hz (manufactured in Europe or Asia) is powered here in the USA, the clock will gain time at a rate of 12 minutes per hour! The reverse is also true.

Today, there is a great deal of discussion about relaxing specifications for power line frequency accuracy in the USA due to its cost.  While this change would not affect most electrical and electronic devices in existence, it is expected to noticeably disrupt the timekeeping accuracy of legacy and vintage synchronous timekeeping devices connected to it such as clocks, clock radios, commercial and industrial timing devices, etc.  Using the Model 1930 eliminates this risk and variability. 

Likewise, many homes today are implementing energy-conscious alternative power sources such as solar power.  These installations are equipped with off-line DC to AC inverters.  Very few if any standard DC to AC inverters are equipped to provide the ultra-precision frequency control needed for timekeeping devices.  Without precision frequency control, any synchronous timekeeping devices will not keep accurate time. 

How precise does the frequency control need to be?  The majority of DC to AC inverters specify frequency accuracy on the order of 1 cycle out of 60.  Powering timekeeping devices, this will result in gaining or losing 1 minute per hour, or 24 minutes per day—over two hours per week!  The Model 1930 specifies worst-case accuracy of 2 parts per million, or 0.0001 cycles out of 60.  This is on the order of 4 seconds per month or better, an improvement in timekeeping of 10,000 times in comparison to using conventional power inverters.  Typically, units are 2 seconds per month.

Technology.  The Model 1930 uses a precision Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillator (TCXO) in combination with an internal computer-controlled Sigma-Delta calibration methodology to assure ultra-precision frequency.  It also uses a proprietary push-pull, DAC-driven SEPIC power technology to produce a clean sine wave which powers the clock.  This assures reliable, efficient, quiet operation, so the clock (or other device) can continue to be used in any location.

Perfect for the Electric Clock Collector!

If you are a collector of antique clocks, you will find the Model 1930 expands the horizon of your collectibles. You can now own and operate 230V 50Hz European clocks (such as the Vitascope) in the USA! If you have an American electric clock and live in Europe or Asia, you can use the Model 1930 to power your clock as precisely as it would operate in the USA. If you live in a location where line frequency is poorly regulated, the Model 1930 will "clean up" the frequency regulation so your electric clock will keep perfect time.

Safety.  Just as importantly, the Model 1930 gives vintage clock enthusiasts peace of mind as it adds a layer of safety while operating vintage electric clocks. This safety margin comes from two factors:

1.  The Model 1930 is power limited to 12 watts or so (unlike the power line, which is capable of delivering multi-kilowatts of power).  This means that if a short circuit occurs inside the clock (or other device you are powering) damage to the device will be minimal or nonexistent.

2.  The Model 1930 provides isolated power to the device, reducing (NOTHING can eliminate) the chance of accidental shock.

THIS PRODUCT IS PROUDLY DESIGNED, MANUFACTURED,
AND QUALITY TESTED IN THE USA

Above: Model 1930 with included Wall Adapter

Above: Front Panel of Model 1930 with Universal Output Adapter (230V only)

Above: Rear Panel of Model 1930 showing 50/60Hz switch

Above: All input plugs included for powering Model 1930 anywhere in the world!

Model 1930-115V

Frequency Precise Power Inverter 115V Output

This unit is configured for 115V clocks. Frequency can be selected as needed, either 50Hz or 60Hz. Default will be set to 60Hz per North American power standards.

Price: $169.00

Model 1930-230V

Frequency Precise Power Inverter 230V Output

This unit is configured for 230V clocks. Frequency can be selected as needed, either 50Hz or 60Hz. Default will be set to 50Hz per European standards. Universal Output (country) Adapter is included.

Price: $179.00

Universal Power Strip for 230V Clocks

For connecting unit to more than one clock. You should ONLY use power strips that are rated for 230V with the Model 1930-230V. This device was selected specifically for this application.

Price: $29.00

• Prices are shown in U.S. Dollars.

• On-line purchases are processed securely through the PayPal® system.

• Unless otherwise noted on your shopping cart, a nominal fee of $14.00 is added to each order for packaging material and shipping costs in the continental United States. Also, Ken's Clock Clinic reserves the right to adjust shipping fees to accomodate order size. If an adjustment is necessary you will be notified prior to fulfillment.

• Sales tax of 8.25% will be applied to residents of Texas.

Please contact us for if you need more information or wish to purchase through means other than e-commerce.

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All product specifications are subject to change without notice.