Editorial Technical Reference

Clock Generator / PLL

This page explains how Clock Generator / PLL is classified within Computer, Electronic and Optical Product Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

An integrated circuit that generates and synchronizes clock signals for communication systems.

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Clock Generator / PLL in a manufacturing environment
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Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Clock Generator / PLL

Definition
A Clock Generator/PLL (Phase-Locked Loop) is a critical component within Communication Interface ICs that produces stable, precise clock signals and synchronizes them with reference signals. It ensures proper timing and data integrity in digital communication systems by generating multiple clock frequencies, reducing jitter, and maintaining phase alignment between transmitter and receiver circuits. The device typically operates over an output frequency range of 1–2000 MHz, with a supply voltage of 1.8–3.3 V, and consumes 10–500 mW depending on output frequency and load. Phase noise ranges from -100 to -150 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset, and RMS jitter is 0.1–5 ps, critical for high-speed serial links. The listed operating temperature range is -40 to 85 °C and must be confirmed for the specific device grade. IEC 60068-2-1 and IEC 60068-2-2 are cold and dry-heat test methods and do not establish this range. Output logic levels include LVCMOS, LVPECL, LVDS, and HCSL, selectable per interface requirement. Frequency stability is ±10 to ±100 ppm, including temperature and aging effects. Lock time after power-up is 1–10 ms. Package types include QFN, TSSOP, and BGA, with 1–8 outputs for system clock distribution. ESD rating is ±2000 to ±4000 V (human body model, per IEC 61340-3-1). The primary material is silicon. These values are directory reference ranges; actual specifications must be confirmed with the legal manufacturer or supplier for the specific model and application.
Working Principle
The PLL circuit compares the phase of a reference clock signal with the phase of its output signal using a phase detector. Any phase difference generates an error voltage that adjusts a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) to match frequencies. The feedback loop continuously corrects phase and frequency errors, producing a stable output clock synchronized to the reference. This closed-loop mechanism ensures that the output clock maintains a fixed phase relationship with the input reference, minimizing jitter and drift. The VCO's frequency is controlled by the error voltage, and the loop filter determines the dynamic response, balancing lock time and stability. In communication systems, this synchronization is essential for data sampling and recovery, ensuring that transmitter and receiver operate at the same timing reference.
Common Materials
Silicon
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Output Frequency Range1–2000 MHzCovers common communication clock rates
Supply Voltage1.8–3.3 VTypical for low-power ICs
Power Consumption10–500 mWDepends on output frequency and load
Phase Noise-100–-150 dBc/Hz @ 1 MHz offsetLower is better for signal integrity
Jitter (RMS)0.1–5 psCritical for high-speed serial links
Operating Temperature Range-40–85 °CIndustrial grade
Output Logic LevelsLVCMOS, LVPECL, LVDS, HCSLSelect per interface requirement
Frequency Stability±10–±100 ppmIncludes temperature and aging
Lock Time1–10 msTime to achieve phase lock after power-up
Package TypeQFN, TSSOP, BGAFootprint and thermal performance vary
Number of Outputs1–8Multiple outputs for system clock distribution
ESD Rating±2000–±4000 V (HBM)Human body modelIEC 61340-3-1

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Phase Detector
    Compares phase difference between reference and feedback signals
    Material: Silicon
  • Voltage-Controlled Oscillator
    Generates output clock signal with frequency controlled by input voltage
    Material: Silicon
  • Loop Filter
    Filters phase detector output to control VCO response
    Material: Silicon

Application & selection

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
jitter: < 1 ps RMS (typical)
voltage: 1.8V to 3.3V supply range
phase noise: < -150 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset
temperature: -40°C to +125°C (industrial grade)
frequency range: 1 MHz to 2.5 GHz output
Media Compatibility
✓ digital communication systems (Ethernet, PCIe, USB) ✓ microprocessor/microcontroller clocking ✓ RF/wireless baseband synchronization
Unsuitable: high-voltage power electronics or environments with extreme electromagnetic interference (EMI) beyond typical shielding
Sizing Data Required
  • required output frequency and number of clock outputs
  • input reference clock frequency and stability
  • power supply voltage and power consumption constraints

Risk, maintenance & compliance

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Phase lock failure
Cause: Voltage regulator instability or excessive jitter from reference clock
Output frequency drift
Cause: Temperature-induced crystal oscillator aging or VCO component degradation
Maintenance Indicators
  • Audible high-frequency whine or clicking from the device
  • Visual inspection shows bulging or leaking capacitors on the PLL power supply section
Engineering Tips
  • Implement active thermal management with heatsinks or forced airflow to maintain stable operating temperature
  • Use high-quality, low-ESR capacitors in the power supply filtering network and replace them proactively per manufacturer's MTBF guidelines

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
IEC 60747-14-1: Semiconductor devices - Part 14-1: Semiconductor sensors - Generic specification for sensors ANSI/EIA 364-13: Electrical Connector/Socket Test Procedures Including Environmental Classifications

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Frequency stability: +/-50 ppm
  • Output jitter: < 1 ps RMS
Quality Inspection
  • Phase Noise Measurement
  • Power Supply Rejection Ratio (PSRR) Test
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the output frequency range of this Clock Generator/PLL?

The directory lists a reference output frequency range of 1–2000 MHz, covering common communication clock rates. The actual range depends on the specific model and configuration; always verify with the manufacturer's datasheet.

What supply voltage does it require?

The typical supply voltage range is 1.8–3.3 V, suitable for low-power ICs. Confirm the exact voltage requirements for your chosen part, as operation outside this range may affect performance.

How does the PLL reduce jitter?

The phase-locked loop continuously compares the output phase to the reference and adjusts the VCO to minimize phase error. This feedback mechanism reduces jitter, with RMS jitter values as low as 0.1 ps, critical for high-speed serial links.

What output logic levels are available?

The device supports LVCMOS, LVPECL, LVDS, and HCSL output logic levels. Selection depends on the interface requirements of your system; consult the datasheet for compatibility and termination guidelines.

Data basis: editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Related equipment

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Communication Interface ICs
View system integration details

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review · Page last updated 12 October 2026

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