Microchip Technology is scaling up production of its hydrogen maser systems as global demand for ultra-precise timekeeping continues to grow. The company has opened a new manufacturing facility in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, dedicated to its MHM-2020 Active Hydrogen Maser, aiming to boost output and shorten lead times.
Hydrogen masers sit at the core of modern timekeeping infrastructure, generating highly stable microwave frequencies that help define Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
These systems play a critical role in keeping power grids, telecom networks, satellite systems, and other essential infrastructure synchronized.
As countries place greater emphasis on resilient, independent timing systems, demand for these high-performance clocks is accelerating.
Microchip Technology’s MHM-2020 is built for environments where frequency stability and low phase noise are non-negotiable.
It supports applications ranging from national timekeeping and scientific research to radio astronomy, deep space tracking, and GNSS ground stations.
The system delivers synchronization accuracy down to 1 picosecond for GNSS calibration and is designed for long-term reliability, with a proven operational life exceeding 20 years and minimal maintenance requirements.
The new Tuscaloosa facility will also manufacture other key products in Microchip’s timing portfolio, including the Auxiliary Output Generator (AOG-110) and the 1000C-OCXO crystal oscillator.
The AOG-110 extends the functionality of precision frequency standards, while the 1000C-OCXO is tailored for metrology and lab environments that demand exceptionally low phase noise.
Microchip’s roots in Alabama trace back to its acquisition of Frequency Time Systems in 1996, after which it established operations in Tuscaloosa County.
The new 15,000-square-foot facility adds advanced temperature-stability testing capabilities alongside a modern R&D lab.
Located near the University of Alabama, it also strengthens an ongoing collaboration that includes shared resources, workforce development, student training, and advisory engagement.
Leadership Comments
“The Quantime Lab at the University of Alabama focuses on the investigation of basic quantum physics principles and developing timing, frequency and navigation tools. For the past three years, we have worked closely with Microchip on its hydrogen maser program,” said Dr. Thejesh Bandi, the principal investigator of the University of Alabama Quantime Laboratory and technical director of the ACCEPT program. “This expansion of their local manufacturing demonstrates our shared commitment to advancing timing and frequency solutions.”
“This facility in Tuscaloosa was a priority for Microchip, both to meet the growing customer demand for our hydrogen masers and to strengthen our collaboration with the University of Alabama’s Precision Navigation and Time Laboratory,” said Randy Brudzinski, corporate vice president of Microchip’s frequency and time systems business unit. “This investment increases our capacity to deliver the advanced timing technologies our customers rely on.”
Microchip offers an extensive portfolio of clock and timing systems, which ranges from miniature component oscillators, to small plug-in timing server cards, to multi-rack time scale systems. As a primary contributor to the world’s time, Microchip’s timing solutions are trusted, reliable and resilient. For more information, visit Microchip’s Clock and Timing Systems web page.
Pricing and Availability
The MHM-2020 Active Hydrogen Maser is now available for purchase.
For additional information and to purchase contact a Microchip sales representative or authorized worldwide distributor.
