The Advantages of IP & PoE Clocks

Accurate time isn’t just a convenience – it is a critical factor in maintaining compliance, productivity, and safety across modern enterprises. Whether in education, healthcare, public safety, manufacturing, or corporate environments, synchronized timekeeping provides the structure organizations need to operate smoothly and efficiently. Without it, even small discrepancies can lead to miscommunication, lost productivity, or regulatory risks.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) clocks address these challenges with a streamlined, network-based approach. By delivering both power and data through a single Ethernet connection, PoE clocks remove the need for separate wiring and connectivity for time acquisition or frequent battery changes. They integrate seamlessly into existing infrastructure, offering precise, reliable, and cost-effective time synchronization across entire facilities. For organizations focused on efficiency and accuracy, PoE clocks provide a future-ready solution that simplifies deployment while enhancing performance.

What are PoE Clocks

Power over Ethernet (PoE) clocks are network-connected timekeeping devices that receive both power and data through a single Ethernet cable. Unlike traditional clocks that require either batteries or separate electrical wiring, PoE clocks connect directly to an organization’s existing network infrastructure. This allows them to draw the power they need while also receiving accurate, synchronized time signals from a central source.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) clocks provide a streamlined, cost-effective way to maintain synchronized time throughout a facility. By delivering both power and data over a single cable, they simplify installation, reduce infrastructure costs, and eliminate the need for separate wiring or battery replacements. Managed directly through the network, PoE clocks automatically stay in sync with each other, ensuring consistent and accurate time displays across every area. This centralized management reduces maintenance burdens and makes troubleshooting far easier. The result is a reliable, scalable timekeeping solution well-suited for diverse environments such as classrooms, offices, hospitals, and industrial plants.

Key Advantages of PoE clocks

Reliable Synchronization

Like other synchronized clock options, PoE clocks maintain precise, network-wide synchronization, ensuring that every clock in an organization displays the same accurate time. This consistency reduces errors, improves coordination, and supports critical operations where timing is essential.

Simplified Installation and Maintenance

By using a single Ethernet cable for both power and data, PoE clocks eliminate the need for separate electrical wiring or frequent battery replacements. This makes installation faster and reduces ongoing maintenance costs.

Scalable and Flexible

PoE clocks can easily be deployed across multiple rooms, floors, or even entire campuses. Their network-based design allows organizations to expand or reconfigure their timekeeping system without complex infrastructure changes.

Cost-Effective Solution

Unlike conventional synchronized clocks, which often rely on a separate master clock or individual battery power, PoE clocks receive both power and network connectivity through a single cable. This removes the need for additional wiring, dedicated controllers, or frequent battery changes. Managed centrally over the network, PoE clocks automatically stay in sync, ensuring consistent and accurate time across an entire facility. Compared to analog or battery-powered systems, this approach reduces installation and maintenance costs while improving reliability, scalability, and operational efficiency.

How PoE Clocks Differ From Other Types of Clocks

FeaturePoE ClocksStandalone Battery-Powered ClocksWired Electric ClocksWi-Fi Clocks
Power SourceEthernet cable (PoE)BatteriesElectrical wiring (often low-voltage signal from a master clock or controller)Batteries or AC power
Time SynchronizationNetwork-synchronized automatically and continuouslyManual or periodic manual adjustmentCan be synchronized via wiring from a master clock or central controller that distributes timing pulses or dataWireless network-synchronized automatically. Every hour for battery powered
InstallationSimple, uses existing networkEasy, flexible placementRequires electrical wiring from power source and (if synchronized) from master/controllerSimple, uses existing Wi-Fi; no cabling beyond power if needed
MaintenanceMinimal, no battery changes or checks for wireless network connectionRegular battery replacementElectrical checks, wiring and controller maintenanceLow – may need occasional network checks or battery changes
ScalabilityHigh – easy to deploy across multiple locationsLimited – each clock independentModerate – each additional clock requires wiring and may rely on master/controller capacityHigh – easy to add to Wi-Fi network across locations
Cost EfficiencyLow long-term maintenance costs, no extra wiringLow initial cost, higher ongoing costsHigher installation cost, moderate maintenanceLow installation cost; moderate ongoing costs if battery-powered
AccuracyHigh – synchronized across networkVaries, prone to driftModerate to high – depends on quality of master/controller and wiringHigh – synchronized via wireless network
Master Clock Required?NoNoYes – typically requires a master clock or controller to distribute the timing signalNo

Who Are The Leader Makers of PoE Clocks?

Sapling – Provides versatile clock solutions designed to suit a wide range of environments. Their standard PoE clocks come in 2.5-inch, 4-inch, and 6-inch sizes with speciality sizes up to 12 inches. 4- or 6-digit LED displays are available in red, amber, white, or green, available in single- or double-sided formats with durable plastic or stainless-steel housings. For a more traditional look, Sapling’s analog clocks are offered in 9-inch, 12-inch, and 16-inch sizes (with larger sizes on the way), with round or square faces. Clock faces can be standard or custom-designed with your organization’s logo, providing synchronized time that is both highly functional and visually appealing.

Novanex – Offers a wide range of clocks to suit different facilities and timekeeping needs. Their PoE options include 4-inch and 6-inch digital models with 4- or 6-digit LED displays in bright red or green for optimal visibility, and clocks can be housed in durable stainless steel or lightweight plastic cases. For environments that prefer a traditional look, Novanex also provides 12 inch analog POE clocks, featuring clear, easy-to-read dials while maintaining the same reliable synchronized timekeeping.

Bodet – Delivers a broad selection of PoE clocks designed for modern, synchronized timekeeping. Their Style LED series includes models with 5 cm, 7 cm, and 10 cm sizes in red, green, yellow, blue, or white. Some larger sizes are also available.  For facilities preferring a traditional look, Bodet’s Profil series offers analog PoE clocks in diameters from 30 cm to 66 cm with a choice of dial styles and markings. 

Each of these manufacturers provides reliable PoE clock solutions, catering to different needs and preferences in time synchronization. If you are looking for a PoE clock for your establishment, contact our sales team today to learn what clock is best for you. 

Novanex PoE Clocks: The Ultimate Solution for Accurate and Efficient Timekeeping

Precise and synchronized timekeeping plays a crucial role in education, healthcare, manufacturing, and corporate settings. Novanex meets this demand with its advanced Power over Ethernet (PoE) clocks, delivering a combination of accuracy, reliability, and energy efficiency.

Novanex PoE clocks are designed to receive both power and time data through a single Ethernet connection. This integration eliminates the need for separate electrical outlets or master clocks, simplifying installation and reducing maintenance efforts. By connecting to your existing network infrastructure, these clocks ensure consistent and accurate time synchronization across all devices.

Key Features and Benefits

  1. Accurate Time Synchronization: By utilizing network time servers or an available reliable public time source, Novanex PoE clocks maintain time accuracy within 200 milliseconds, ensuring uniformity across all connected devices.
  2. Easy Installation and Maintenance: The PoE technology allows for straightforward installation without the need for electrical outlets at each clock’s location. Maintenance is simplified, as power and data are delivered via standard network cabling.
  3. Energy Efficiency: Operating on low power consumption, these clocks can be backed up using a centralized Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), ensuring continuous operation even during power outages.
  4. Versatile Design Options: Novanex offers a range of clock designs to suit various environments:

Analog Clocks: Classic design ideal for traditional settings.

4-Digit Digital Clocks: Clear time display suitable for most applications.

6-Digit Digital Clocks: Includes seconds display, perfect for settings where precise time measurement is critical.

Clean Room Clocks: Designed for environments requiring frequent cleaning, such as laboratories and food processing areas.


Applications Across Industries

Educational Institutions:
By providing accurate, synchronized timekeeping across classrooms and common areas, these clocks ensure smooth class transitions, minimizing disruptions and maximizing instructional time. They also support standardized testing by ensuring precise time tracking, helping students and educators follow strict schedules. Their reliability enhances campus coordination, improving punctuality and time management.

Healthcare Facilities:
Ensuring precise time synchronization in hospitals and clinics, these clocks support critical operations like medication administration and medical procedures. Accurate timekeeping helps nurses follow strict dosing schedules and reduces errors. They also enhance staff coordination during surgeries, diagnostics, shift changes, and record-keeping, promoting efficiency and regulatory compliance.

Manufacturing Plants:
With synchronized, accurate timekeeping across the facility, these clocks help employees adhere to shift schedules, breaks, and production deadlines. This reduces downtime, bottlenecks, and delays while improving workflow coordination. Accurate time tracking also enhances efficiency by keeping machine operations, quality control, and maintenance on schedule, ultimately boosting productivity and cost savings.

Corporate Offices:
Maintains a professional and efficient work environment by providing synchronized timekeeping across all departments, helping employees stay on schedule and reducing discrepancies that cause missed deadlines or delays. Accurate time tracking enhances time management, workplace discipline, and workflow coordination, supporting smooth collaboration, timely meetings, and efficient project execution. Whether in workspaces, meeting rooms, or break areas, Novanex clocks foster a punctual and productive corporate environment.

Management and Monitoring

Administrators can manage multiple clocks through simple telnet sessions or web-based interfaces, allowing for remote monitoring and configuration. The intuitive interface makes it easy to adjust settings, synchronize time, and troubleshoot issues from a central location. The system also supports email alerts for any connectivity issues, ensuring prompt attention to potential problems and minimizing downtime. With these features, organizations can maintain accurate and efficient timekeeping without the need for constant manual intervention.

Novanex PoE clocks provide a reliable and efficient solution for synchronized timekeeping across various industries. With short lead times, you can quickly implement these high-quality clocks into your facility. Contact a sales representative today for a free consultation and discover how Novanex can streamline your timekeeping needs.

Don’t Spend Time on Time

Network Instruments Connection Dynamics

Adjusting Clocks for Daylight Saving Time:


Daylight saving time comes twice a year, once in March and again in November. This can be a big hassle for maintenance teams, facility managers, IT staff, and anyone else in charge of keeping a building running smoothly. Adjusting for daylight saving time is easier if you have a synchronized clock system that performs DST updates automatically. Such a smooth transition means you can address other maintenance needs in the building, because who wants to spend time on time?

Calculate your lost time!

If keeping everyone in sync and on time is critical to your operations, then daylight saving time can be a big hassle. By adjusting each clock manually you’re spending a lot of time going from clock to clock adjusting each clock, and sometimes clocks are not easily accessible needing a ladder or lift, or waiting for a room to become available.

How Much Time can You Save?

If you have 100 clocks to manage and each clock takes 5 minutes to adjust, that takes you 8 hours twice a year to get everyone synchronized.

5 minutes/clock x 100 clocks x 2 DST events = 1000 minutes per year

1000 minutes ÷ 60 = 16 hours/Year

Its Time to Upgrade

Different technologies can be used to synchronize your clocks to meet any building requirement.