Editorial Technical Reference

Phase-locked loop

This page explains how Phase-locked loop 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

A control system that generates an output signal whose phase is related to the phase of an input reference signal.

View Full Specifications Explore Manufacturing Sources

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Phase-locked loop

Definition
The phase-locked loop (PLL) is a critical electronic circuit used in timing generators to synchronize the phase and frequency of its output oscillator signal with a reference input signal. It ensures stable, precise clock generation, frequency synthesis, and jitter reduction for timing-sensitive operations. The PLL operates by comparing the phase of a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) output with the phase of an input reference signal using a phase detector. The resulting error voltage is filtered and used to adjust the VCO frequency, driving the phase error toward zero and locking the output frequency to the reference. This component is typically fabricated on semiconductor (silicon) substrates and is available in a QFN-24 package. Key parameters include a supply voltage range of 3.3–5.0 V DC, power consumption of 10–50 mW, input frequency range of 1–100 MHz, output frequency range of 10–1000 MHz, phase noise of -100 to -80 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset, lock time of 1–10 ms, operating temperature range of -40 to 85 °C, supply current of 5–20 mA, output level of 0–3.3 V (CMOS logic levels), and weight of 0.5–1.0 g. These values are directory reference ranges and must be confirmed for the specific model and application. The PLL is used in applications requiring precise timing, such as clock generation, frequency synthesis, and data recovery. When selecting a PLL, consider the required input and output frequency ranges, phase noise performance, lock time, and power consumption. Verify that the supply voltage and output level are compatible with your system. For industrial-grade operation, ensure the operating temperature range meets your environmental requirements. The package type and weight are relevant for mechanical integration. Always consult the legal manufacturer or supplier to confirm model-specific values and standards before procurement.
Working Principle
The PLL compares the phase of a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) output with the phase of an input reference signal using a phase detector. The resulting error voltage is filtered and used to adjust the VCO frequency, driving the phase error toward zero and locking the output frequency to the reference. This feedback loop ensures that the output signal maintains a fixed phase relationship with the reference, enabling precise frequency synthesis and jitter reduction.
Common Materials
Semiconductor (Silicon)
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Supply Voltage3.3–5.0 V DCOperating range for core logic
Power Consumption10–50 mWDepends on output frequency and load
Input Frequency Range1–100 MHzReference signal frequency
Output Frequency Range10–1000 MHzVCO tuning range
Phase Noise-100–-80 dBc/HzAt 10 kHz offset
Lock Time1–10 msTime to achieve phase lock
Operating Temperature-40–85 °CIndustrial grade
Supply Current5–20 mAAt nominal supply voltage
Output Level0–3.3 VCMOS logic levels
Package TypeQFN-24Standard footprint
Weight0.5–1.0 gTypical for QFN package

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 the phase difference between the input reference signal and the feedback signal from the VCO, producing an error voltage.
    Material: Semiconductor
  • Loop Filter
    Filters the error voltage from the phase detector to remove high-frequency noise and shape the loop dynamics, providing stability.
    Material: Passive components (Resistors, Capacitors)
  • Voltage-Controlled Oscillator (VCO)
    Generates the output signal whose frequency is controlled by the filtered error voltage from the loop filter.
    Material: Semiconductor
  • Frequency Divider
    Divides the VCO output frequency to provide feedback for comparison with the reference, enabling frequency multiplication.
    Material: Semiconductor

Application & selection

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: N/A (electronic component, not fluid handling)
other spec: Frequency range: 1 Hz to 10 GHz (varies by model), Supply voltage: 1.8V to 5V, Phase noise: -80 dBc/Hz to -150 dBc/Hz at offset
temperature: -40°C to +125°C (typical industrial range)
Media Compatibility
✓ Digital communication systems ✓ Frequency synthesizers ✓ Clock recovery circuits
Unsuitable: High-vibration mechanical environments without proper mounting/shock absorption
Sizing Data Required
  • Reference frequency input (Hz)
  • Desired output frequency range (Hz)
  • Required phase noise performance (dBc/Hz)

Risk, maintenance & compliance

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Phase Lock Failure
Cause: Voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) drift due to temperature variations or aging components causing loss of synchronization with reference signal
Jitter Accumulation
Cause: Noise in the loop filter or reference clock leading to timing errors and degraded signal integrity
Maintenance Indicators
  • Audible high-frequency whine or erratic output signal
  • Visual indicator (LED) showing loss of lock or unstable frequency display
Engineering Tips
  • Implement temperature compensation circuits and use high-stability reference oscillators to minimize VCO drift
  • Regularly calibrate loop filter components and maintain clean power supply to reduce noise-induced jitter

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 61000-4-3 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) - Testing and measurement techniques

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Frequency stability: +/- 0.5 ppm over operating temperature range
  • Phase noise: -100 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset from carrier
Quality Inspection
  • Phase margin and stability analysis via Bode plot measurement
  • Jitter measurement using spectrum analyzer or dedicated jitter analyzer
Technical documentation
Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.
Manufacturing capability
Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.
Inspection readiness
Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.
Supplier transparency
Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

Compare the published product scope and source details, then include your specifications and quantity in an enquiry.

Manufacturers of Phase-locked loop

Manufacturer profiles associated with Phase-locked loop.

Sourcing Phase-locked loop from China?
Tell us your specification and target quantity — we will match it against manufacturer records and come back with the factories that fit.
Request manufacturers We manufacture this

Explore company information and manufacturing capabilities, then discuss the scope of your project with a relevant supplier.

Buyer enquiry

Request manufacturing insight for Phase-locked loop

Ask for use case, specification boundaries, supplier type, and RFQ preparation information for this product.

Where it goes
Straight to the CNFX editorial desk, and to the manufacturer if this product is linked to a claimed profile. Nothing is broadcast to a supplier list.
Your details stay here
We do not sell or rent enquiry data, and we do not add you to a mailing list. Used only to answer this request.
No commission, no middleman
CNFX is a directory. We take no cut of any order and never negotiate on a supplier's behalf.
What to include
Share your product specifications, quantity, destination and target delivery date.

Your business information is used only to process this request.

Thank you! Your message has been sent. We'll respond within 1–3 business days.
Sorry, we couldn't send your message. Please try again, or email us at [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical supply voltage range for this PLL?

The directory lists a supply voltage range of 3.3–5.0 V DC for core logic. However, you must verify the exact operating range for the specific model and application with the legal manufacturer or supplier.

What is the input frequency range?

The reference signal frequency range is listed as 1–100 MHz. Confirm the actual input frequency limits for your chosen PLL model, as they may vary.

What is the output frequency range?

The VCO tuning range is listed as 10–1000 MHz. This is a directory reference; the actual output frequency range depends on the specific PLL model and external components.

What is the operating temperature range?

For industrial grade, the operating temperature range is listed as -40 to 85 °C. Verify that this range meets your application requirements and confirm with the manufacturer.

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:

Timing generator
View system integration details
Clock Management Unit
View system integration details
Frequency Converter
View system integration details

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems

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

Need to Manufacture Phase-locked loop?

Compare manufacturer profiles with relevant product and process capability.

Create Manufacturer Profile Contact Us
Previous Product
XY Positioning Stage
Last Product
Get QuotesChat