September 23, 2003
A: FROM MENTOR CAROL TOMAN IN IL
Your "atomic clock" is not really atomic at all. It listens for a
radio signal from the real atomic clock in Fort Collins, CO. and it
uses that signal to synchronize itself with official US timekeeping.
The atomic clock in Fort Collins was not affected by the hurricane.
My best guess is that a lot of new radio interference has been
introduced since the hurricane in your area. Radio interference is
commonly created by poor electrical connections which is
understandable if repair crews are hurriedly splicing together wires
to restore service. Let's hope that they go back and make
improvements or your clocks could be permanently useless in your
area. If you have a chance to travel, try taking the clock with you
to see if it works in a different area (even a few blocks might make
a difference). I've attached a paragraph that I lifted from an
advertisement for an atomic clock which contains some ideas for
further research.

"The national institute of Standard and Technology (NIST) in Fort
Collins, Colorado broadcasts the time signal (WWVB at 60KHz AM radio
signal) with an accuracy of 1 second per every 3,000 years. Our
innovative timepieces incorporate a miniature antenna and receiver
with Atomic technology to intercept the time signal broadcast from the
U.S. atomic clock operated by the National Institute of Standards and
Technology—NIST (www.nist.gov). The signal is receptable over a
distance up to 2,000 miles from the source. Like a typical AM radio,
your Atomic timepiece will have trouble receiving the WWVB signal in
places surrounded by heavy concrete, metal panel, and electronic
interference. ` To get the best performance of the Atomic clock,
please install the clock nearer to a window and change directions if
one direction does not work. "

And, you're right, the atomic clock has nothing to do with Hedy
Lamar's clever patent. You can read more about her invention at
http://www.ncafe.com/chris/pat2/index.html.