Reliable time synchronisation for arenas, stadiums and sports complexes

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Stade, aréna et complexe sportif

Time Servers and Clock Systems for Sports Infrastructures

Stadiums and arenas hosting sporting events, concerts or large-scale cultural events require high-precision and reliable time synchronisation to deliver a seamless experience for spectators, staff and broadcast media.

 

In sports venues where every second matters, accurate time management is essential to synchronise scoreboards, display systems, public announcements, live broadcasting and external media feeds. Reliable time synchronisation ensures the smooth operation of competitions and events.

Why do stadiums, sports halls and aquatic centres need time synchronisation solutions?

In sports infrastructures, time display systems and NTP synchronisation of audiovisual, broadcasting and access control systems are critical to:

  • ensure punctuality and reliability of sporting events 
  • provide real-time, accurate and readable information to spectators, teams and officials 
  • synchronise digital displays, video walls, broadcast systems and clocks in high-traffic venues 
  • enhance the overall spectator experience 
  • improve operational efficiency and contribute to venue safety and security
NTP Time Servers for Stadiums

Stadiums

NTP Synchronisation for Sports Halls and Gymnasiums

Sports Halls and Gymnasiums

NTP Time Solutions for Swimming Pools and Aquatic Centres

Swimming Pools

Time Servers for Sports Infrastructure Synchronisation

Deploying a network time server (NTP) in sports infrastructures ensures accurate and secure synchronisation of all IP-connected equipment, including clocks, ticketing systems, security cameras, access control systems and broadcast equipment. 

 

Using industry-standard protocols such as NTP (Network Time Protocol), time servers deliver a consistent and unified time reference across the entire IT and AV infrastructure.

 

This centralised and secure time synchronisation helps to:

  • prevent time drift that could disrupt event scheduling
  • optimise the performance of sports facilities
  • improve the experience for spectators, athletes and staff
  • strengthen cybersecurity and network integrity

Analog and Digital Clocks in Stadiums and Arenas

Analog and digital clocks play a key role in coordinating activities within stadiums and arenas, where precise timekeeping is essential for the smooth running of sporting, cultural and logistical events.

 

Whether managing spectator flows, coordinating technical teams or synchronising media broadcasts, the use of reliable and highly visible clocks—both indoors and outdoors—ensures efficient and well-controlled operations

 

Analog clocks for quick and intuitive time reading

Thanks to their classic display, analog clocks offer immediate readability, making them ideal for access areas, hospitality suites, VIP lounges, technical rooms and service zones.

 

Renowned for their robustness and reliability, HANDI® analog clocks meet the strict visibility and durability requirements of sports infrastructures. Their design integrates seamlessly into stadium and arena architecture while ensuring clear time display in all conditions.

Digital clocks for maximum visibility

LEDI® digital clocks provide outstanding display accuracy and excellent legibility, even from long distances. They are particularly suited for grandstands, entrance halls, circulation corridors, changing rooms and control rooms.

 

Their clear digital display enables effective synchronisation of on-field and backstage operations, as well as live media broadcasting. They actively support coordination between internal teams, event organisers, referees and broadcasters.


Why choose Gorgy Time for your sports facilities?

With many years of expertise in time synchronisation and display systems, we support sports infrastructures with solutions fully adapted to the specific constraints of stadiums and sports halls. By choosing Gorgy Time, you benefit from:

  • a single, reliable time reference for all your equipment,
  • a professional and robust design tailored to demanding environments,
  • comprehensive project support, from audit and design to commissioning and ongoing maintenance.

Request expert advice for your installation

FAQ : Time Synchronisation in Sports Facilities

Does time synchronisation contribute to the IT security of a sports facility?

A reliable and secure time reference is essential for IT security within sports infrastructures. It enables accurate event timestamping, improved incident analysis, effective log correlation and compliance with regulatory requirements. As a result, time synchronisation plays a key role in strengthening the overall cybersecurity of stadiums, arenas and sports venues.

What are the key factors to consider when implementing a time synchronisation system in a sports centre?

The implementation of a time synchronisation system in a sports environment is based on several essential factors: the required display format (hours–minutes or hours–minutes–seconds), the size of the facility (multi-purpose sports complex, stadium, swimming pool or gymnasium), the existing network infrastructure (IP network, for example), as well as environmental constraints such as humidity, impacts and lighting conditions.

Which technology should be chosen between NTP and AFNOR for a sports complex?

The choice between NTP and AFNOR time synchronisation mainly depends on the existing infrastructure. NTP is particularly well suited for sports complexes equipped with an IP network, as it allows efficient synchronisation of clocks, servers, ticketing systems, security systems and display equipment. 


AFNOR synchronisation relies on a dedicated wired signal and enables time distribution over long distances without requiring connection to the sports complex’s IP network.

Are digital clocks protected against ball impacts?

Yes, digital clocks designed for sports environments are generally built to withstand repeated impacts, including ball strikes. They feature reinforced front panels made of polycarbonate or safety glass, combined with robust housings. 


For installations located close to playing areas (gymnasiums, multi-sport halls), it is recommended to choose models certified for resistance to mechanical impacts.

Which IP protection rating should be chosen for a clock installed in a swimming pool or an outdoor stadium?

The IP protection rating is a critical selection criterion. In swimming pools or highly humid environments, an IP65 rating is recommended to protect the clock against moisture, water splashes and chlorinated products.


For outdoor stadiums, an IP54 rating is also suitable to ensure resistance to weather conditions, dust and temperature variations.

Which digit size should be chosen according to the viewing distance?

The choice of digit size depends directly on the viewing distance. For readability from the grandstands, large digits (from 10 cm and above) are required to ensure optimal visibility. 

Conversely, for changing rooms, technical rooms or areas close to the playing field, smaller digits are sufficient (around 7 cm).