The Amazing Atomic Wall Clock

The invention of the clock is such a pivotal one in history.  Not only were we less reliant upon the sun's position, we were also able to tell the time no matter the weather conditions. 

However, the design and invention of the standard quartz clock system while amazing, has proven to be less than desirable as the oscillator is tuned once upon the creation or manufacturing of the particular clock, never to be adjusted again. 

This causes a standard quartz clock to become fast or slow over time.  The creation of the atomic wall clock helps remedy this problem with new and renewable technology that keeps the time current within the clock. 

The atomic wall clock is located in Colorado (for US residents) and two others in Europe.  It is considered the official time of the US and is broadcast over the entire United States via a radio signal.

The clocks within our homes that are considered atomic clocks receive a radio signal from the original atomic clock, decode the signal and then adjust its own time to match the time from the atomic clock. These clocks check the accuracy of their time at least once a day.

The basic mechanics of the atomic clock contains a microwave cavity of ionized gas, a microwave oscillator that is tunable and a feedback loop.  These parts work in harmony together to constantly observe and monitor the oscillation speed of the oscillator and drop or add atoms to keep the clock as accurate as possible. 

This process is fairly simple yet provides so many benefits for our day to day life.  The atomic clock ensures accuracy of the time that makes the Internet and global positioning systems possible.  The accuracy of this clock is essential to the proper function of many communication systems and everyday necessities. 

There are three kinds of atomic clocks on the market that are used for the wide array of products that require atomic wall clocks to function properly. All three work basically the same, but use a different element to complete the analysis of the time frequency. 

Some are more reliable than others, and some are more cost effective for other items.  These three clock models are the Cesium Clock, the Rudidium clock, and hydrogen clock.  Each works for a specific purpose.