I started this project when I was having trouble finding an ESP32-based PPS (Pulse Per Second) time server that compiled on a recent version of Arduino and had the features I wanted. This project provides a reliable, high-accuracy NTP server solution using an ESP32 with Ethernet support and Power over Ethernet (PoE).
This repository contains the firmware and 3D-printable housing for a Network Time Protocol (NTP) server. By utilizing the PPS signal from a GPS module, this server provides microsecond-level timing accuracy to your local network.
The project is designed for the Waveshare ESP32-S3-ETH, but it should be easily adaptable to most ESP32 Ethernet boards and GPS modules with a PPS output.
- Microcontroller: Waveshare ESP32-S3-ETH (Supports PoE)
- GPS Module: Beitian BN-220 GPS/Glonass
- Power: Runs directly off PoE via the Waveshare board, or can be powered via USB-C.
| BN-220 GPS Pin | ESP32-S3-ETH Pin | Description |
|---|---|---|
| VCC | 3.3V or 5V | Power supply for GPS |
| GND | GND | Ground |
| TX | GPIO 5 (RX) | GPS Data Transmission |
| RX | GPIO 4 (TX) | GPS Data Reception |
| PPS | GPIO 1 | Pulse Per Second (High Precision) |
Please verify these GPIO assignments in ESP32TimeServer/ESP32TimeServer.ino before powering on.
/ESP32TimeServer: The Arduino sketch folder containing the source code.Case.stl: 3D-printable main housing for the electronics.LockBlock.stl: 3D-printable locking mechanism/mount.
- Hardware: Wire the BN-220 to the Waveshare board as shown in the table above.
- Arduino IDE: * Open
ESP32TimeServer.ino.- Ensure the ESP32 board manager is installed (v2.0.x+).
- Select ESP32-S3 Dev Module (or the specific Waveshare board profile if installed).
- Flash: Upload the code to the board via USB-C.
- Enclosure: Print the provided
.stlfiles. The board is designed to snap into the case, secured by the LockBlock.
Note that I used Gemini quite a bit creating this.