Raspberry Pi 5 PCIe HAT with I226 NIC (TimeHATv5)

Raspberry Pi 5 PCIe HAT with I226 NIC — TimeHATv5

Note: This is the v5 hardware revision. The OCP M.2 GNSS slot is present on the board but is not functional on this version. If you need GNSS support, please see the TimeHATv6 ($200).

The TimeHATv5 brings precision timing and advanced network functionality to the Raspberry Pi 5. Leveraging the PCIe interface via an FPC connection, it integrates a high-performance Intel I226 Ethernet NIC, precise timing inputs and outputs via SMA connectors, and a built-in TCXO for enhanced timing stability. It's a powerful tool for building small form-factor PTP (Precision Time Protocol) clients — ideal for time-sensitive networking applications.

v5 vs v6 — What's Different?

• TimeHATv5 (this product, $140): I226 NIC, SMA timing ports, TCXO — GNSS slot is not usable
• TimeHATv6 ($200): All v5 features plus a fully functional OCP M.2 GNSS slot for satellite-disciplined timekeeping

What's in the Box

• TimeHATv5
• 40-pin spacer
• 16-pin FPC PCIe cable
• Spacers, nuts, and screws for mounting to Raspberry Pi 5

Key Features

I226 Ethernet NIC

The HAT features an Intel I226 NIC connected to the Raspberry Pi 5 over the PCIe interface, delivering fast, reliable Ethernet connectivity — perfect for applications requiring high-speed networking combined with precise timing.

Precision Timing via SMA Ports

• SMA Input (SDP1 on I226): Receive a 1PPS signal to discipline the NIC's internal clock.
• SMA Output (SDP0 on I226): Output a 1PPS signal from the NIC to synchronize external equipment.
• Spare U.FL (SDP3 on I226): Raw unbuffered connection usable as input or output. Warning: This is also a strapping pin — connecting it at boot may affect Ethernet functionality.

Built-in TCXO

A high-precision Temperature-Compensated Crystal Oscillator (TCXO) ensures timing stability even during network loss, and allows tighter disciplining parameters to reduce PTP timing jitter. Stability: ±280 ppb across temperature.

OCP M.2 GNSS Slot — Not Functional on v5

The M.2 slot is physically present on the board but is not usable on this hardware revision. For GNSS support, please upgrade to the TimeHATv6.

Applications

• PTP Client or Grandmaster: Synchronize network devices with sub-microsecond accuracy.
• 1PPS Signal Measurement: Measure and verify 1PPS signals for precise timekeeping.
• Edge Networking: Deploy in edge computing environments where precise timing is critical.
• Home Labs: Create a PTP client network for your home lab with ease.
• Research & Development: Experiment with PTP and timing protocols in various network configurations.

Resources

• TimeHAT GitHub Repo — setup documentation, discussions, and issues
• Jeff Geerling's time-pi GitHub Repo

For full setup and usage instructions (linuxptp, testptp, 1PPS configuration, gpsd, etc.), please refer to the TimeHATv6 product page — all software setup steps are identical between v5 and v6.