What is the difference between a MSF, DCF, and HGB Receiver?

Answer 1

Well, they are all receivers used to tune in atomic clock radio synchronization signals. The difference is which transmitter the receiver is tuned to receive.

MSF is the callsign to the 60kHz atomic clock time signal transmitter in Rugby, UK. It's main coverage area is the British Isles, although it is also receivable in the North and West of continental Europe.

DCF, often referred to as DCF77 is a German transmitter at 77.5kHz. It has a larger coverage area particularly suited for Western and Central Europe.

HBG is a 75kHz transmitter in Prangins, Switzerland. It uses the same time signal format as DCF77 does and due to the two's closeness in frequency and compatible formats, the receivers for both HBG and DCF77 are often capable of syncing to either signal.

You should choose the receiver that suits your area the best. Here is a map of the coverage areas:

DCF77:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/74/Dcf77_map.png

MSF:
http://www.npl.co.uk/time/msf/images/signal_coverage1.jpg

Answer 2

Msf Receiver