Crystal oscillators dominate the clock circuit space because of their superior precision, stability, and low cost. But Epson Toyocom offers some attractive alternatives. Its EG-4101/4121A surface-acoustic wave (SAW) oscillator has the stability and performance to challenge crystal oscillators in wireless basestations and local-area network (LAN) and storage-area network (SAN) applications (see the figure).
The unique, patented EG-4101/4121A features temperature frequency stability and phase noise performance that fit a variety of communications applications. It operates at a fundamental frequency in the 100- to 700-MHz range. Meanwhile, crystal oscillators operate at a lower frequency and use a phase-locked loop (PLL) multiplier to get the final output frequency, which usually worsens the jitter and phase noise performance. Other key features include:
- Frequency tolerance of ±50 x 10–6
- Wide operating temperature range of –40°C to 85°C
- Low phase noise and jitter: 0.2 ps maximum (at 622.08 MHz, 12 kHz to 20 MHz)
- Support for multiple output loads, including LV-PECL, LVDS, and HCSL
- Operation from 2.5 or 3.3 V; the current draw depends on the output load conditions
Next time you’re looking for a clock in a communications application, you may want to explore this SAW option.
Epson Toyocom Corp.
www.epsontoyocom.co.jp/english/