For a radio amateur, precise time is important for several practical and technical reasons, especially in connection with operation on different bands, planning connections, and using modern digital communication modes. Here are the main reasons why to use a program like NetTime:
Digital modes and synchronization
Modern digital modes, such as FT8, JT65 or MSK144, require precise time synchronization between stations. These modes operate with fixed time intervals (usually 15 or 30 seconds), and if the system time at the station is shifted by even a few seconds, the connection may fail.
Meteor Scatter and EME communication
During Meteor Scatter connections and EME (Earth-Moon-Earth) communication, time synchronization is critical. In these operations, precisely timed transmission and reception of signals are used because the reflections are short-lived and must be accurately timed.
International cooperation and planning
Radio amateurs often work with partners from different time zones. The use of precise time (usually UTC) allows for easier coordination of skeds (agreed connections) and planning activities, for example during contests.
Recording connections
Precise time is crucial for recording connections in a log, especially during contests or for official confirmation of connections (Incorrect time can lead to rejection of connection during cross-check.). An incorrect time can result in the connection being rejected during cross-checking.
Monitoring ionospheric conditions
Radio amateurs monitor changes in signal propagation conditions influenced by solar activity and daily/nightly cycle. Accurate time helps in analyzing when certain bands are most usable.
Using online tools and services
Many radio amateur tools and services, such as DX clusters, have timestamps that radio amateurs use to search for current conditions and available stations.
Therefore, accurate time is an integral part of radio amateurs' activities, and its correct synchronization can significantly affect the success of their operations.
NetTime
NetTime is a simple and reliable program for synchronizing your computer's system time with accurate time servers on the internet. This tool is ideal for users who need to ensure accurate time on their device, whether for work needs, team coordination, or personal preferences.
NetTime program uses the NTP (Network Time Protocol) protocol, which is one of the most accurate ways to obtain time from public or specialized time servers. After installation, NetTime automatically integrates into your system and in the background regularly checks and updates the time according to the set intervals.
Benefits of NetTime
Its main advantage is low demand on system resources and a simple user interface. The configuration is very intuitive - just select preferred time servers and set the synchronization frequency. The program supports various Windows operating systems, including older versions (95/98/Me/NT/2000/XP/Vista/7/8/10/11 and Server 2003/2008/2012/2016/2019/2022), making it suitable for a wide range of users.
NetTime is open-source software, which means it is available for free and its source code is open to the community. Thanks to its accuracy and reliability, it is popular among professionals and casual users. If you are looking for an effective time synchronization solution, NetTime is the ideal choice. You can find the installation file at You can synchronize
Good program, needs a moment to set up to work automatically and adjust time even with a second deviation.