Atomic Clock FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do atomic clocks work?
The U.S. government operates an “Atomic Clock” in Boulder, CO. This Atomic Clock will not gain or lose a second in 60 million years. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) delivers this time to the International Bureau of Weights and Measures in Paris. The Bureau receives time scales from other nations, averages the time scales, and distributes this average. The NIST uses this average and distributes it via radio signals (including WWVB) to your atomic clock which is programmed to receive. This radio signal allows your clock to match the Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) exactly and adjust for your time zone. (Information from the NIST)
2. Can I pick up the signal where I live?
The radio signals (WWVB) are transmitted from Fort Collins, Co. The signal covers about a 2000 mile radius. East cost and west cost areas may take longer to pick up the signal. Also, buildings with a lot of steel and few windows may make it difficult for your clock to pick up the signal. If you find that your signal has been lost, many times placing it by a window will help locate the signal.
3. Will my clock work even if it does not pick up the signal?
Yes. Our clocks run on quartz movements. If you are in an area where you are not picking up the NIST signal, your clock will still run normally. However, it won’t match the U.S Atomic Clock and may not be precise down to the second.
4. Will my clock pick up the NIST signal outside of the U.S.?
No. However, some of our clocks pick up different country atomic time radio signals. These clocks are multi-functional. Please see individual clock for more details.
5. Do I have to adjust my clock for daylight saving time?
No. As long as you are receiving the synchronization signal from the U.S. Atomic Clock, your clock will adjust automatically.
6.Do I have to adjust the date?
No, your clock should adjust automatically. Please see individual clock instructions for manual setting, if necessary.
7. Do your clocks run on batteries? If so, how long will they last?
Yes. Our clocks run on batteries. Please refer to individual clock for type and how long they will last.
8. Can I return my clock for a refund?
9. Who do I contact for technical questions?
You may call 1-800-556-2548 to get answers to questions for most of our clocks. However, most of our clocks have phone numbers in the instruction manual for the manufacturer to get your technical questions answered.
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