Follow the tips below to ensure your clocks and clock systems are ready for the time change.
Routinely check your clocks leading up to Daylight Saving Time
The beginning and end of Daylight Saving Time serve as natural reminders to make sure your facility's clocks are reliably keeping everyone on schedule.
To ensure that a wired system clock is syncing correctly, unplug it, wait at least 10 seconds, and plug it back in. The clock should be receiving synchronization signals from the master controller and display the correct time within 24 hours.
You can take a similar approach to your wireless system battery-operated clocks. Take the battery out, assuring the clock hands come to a complete stop, and reinstall it.
This is a good time to check the life of your batteries, too. If a battery is supplying 1.5 volts or more, it should be good to go. The clock will automatically be on time within 12 hours or sooner.
Inspect the Master Clock/Controller
For American Time's SiteSync IQ, check the power at the system controller. Attending to individual system clocks won't do you any good if the master controller isn't working properly, so check the time on that central device. Make sure it displays the correct time, time zone and Daylight Saving Time setting. If something is off, check the power cables, plugs, and any antennas.
For added peace of mind, check the master's network settings.
Inspect your IP Network clocks
For a Wi-Fi network, make sure you've got the proper settings for SSID (network name), passphrase and the time server.
If you're working with a Power over Ethernet (PoE) system, take a look at your network time servers, and the cables running to the clocks.
Rest well with a Synchronized Time System
If you want life to go smoothly during this transition, then this is one of those instances where you just have to get with the program. Life gets easier if you have a synchronized time system that removes any anxiety that your clocks won't remain in step with the rest of the world.
If your clocks update automatically, and you've made sure they're in working order, you can go to bed without worry, ready to fully appreciate that extra hour of sunlight the next day.
