Multi-output MEMS clock generator, do you understand it?

What is a multiple-output MEMS clock generator? What does it do? As consumer demand for compact Internet of Things (IoT) and portable electronic devices accelerates, product designers need to find solutions that reduce application size while extending battery life . Timing devices are key to the operation of these products, but clock sources often require multiple components to meet the frequency requirements of consumer electronics devices, resulting in higher board space and power consumption.

In order to solve these design problems, Microchip Technology Inc. has launched the industry's smallest MEMS clock generator. This new device can replace up to three crystals and oscillators on the circuit board, integrating the timing components of the circuit. Board space is reduced by up to 80%. The DSC613 clock family eliminates the need for an external crystal oscillator by integrating a low-power and high-stability microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) resonator.

To meet the frequency range requirements of today's smart devices, system designers need to place multiple crystals/oscillators next to the controller on the circuit board, or use a clock generator that provides a reference input through an external crystal. The DSC613 series is a true single-chip solution that integrates a MEMS resonator and two low-power phase-locked loops (PLLs) into a 6-pin DFN with package sizes as low as 1.6 mm x 1.2 mm. The compact package size and wide frequency flexibility make the DSC613 series ideally suited for small devices that require low power operation, such as digital cameras, smart speakers, virtual reality (VR) headsets, streaming sticks and set-top boxes.

The DSC613 series supports up to three clock outputs with a frequency range of 2 kilohertz (kHz) to 100 megahertz (MHz), making it ideal for microcontroller-based embedded systems. In IoT applications, for example, a clock generator can be used to provide a MHz master reference clock and a 32.768 kHz real-time clock (RTC) to a microcontroller (MCU), while providing other MHz clocks to functional components such as connectivity and sensors. The DSC163 family includes two low-power fractional PLLs featuring AnyRate® clock synthesizers, which enable them to generate any frequency from 2 kHz to 100 MHz. The series offers three outputs and consumes only approximately 5 milliamps (mA), saving up to 45% compared to solutions using three low-power quartz oscillators. To further reduce power consumption, the clock output can be turned off via the output enable pin.

Rami Kanama, vice president of Microchip's Timing and Communications business unit, said: "Microchip is the only one-stop timing services provider, we provide network synchronization, clock generation and buffering, as well as MEMS, crystal and SAW-based oscillators in the frequency range from kHz to GHz. The DSC613 clock generation family is the latest addition to our already broad portfolio of MEMS timing products, providing a true single-chip timing solution for MCU-based systems, making it an excellent choice for Microchip’s MCU and MPU devices. Clock partner.”

MEMS products are built entirely in accordance with standard semiconductor processes and can provide the same reliability and stability as integrated circuits. The device can operate at temperatures from -40 to +125 degrees Celsius and has a stability of up to ± 20 ppm. All products are subject to Microchip's customer-driven obsolescence rules and will remain available as long as customers require them.

development tools

The DSC613 family is supported by Microchip's ClockWorks® online configuration tool. Customers enter their clock configuration to get a custom part number and data sheet, and can order free samples at clockworks.microchip.com/timing.

Clock configuration includes output frequency, control pin function, package size, PPM accuracy and temperature range. According to the customized circuit board loading conditions, it provides up to three levels of output drive strength, while providing spread spectrum clock to reduce electromagnetic interference, as well as application support such as circuit board layout guide and schematic review. The above is the analysis of the multi-output MEMS clock generator, I hope it can help you.