AU5430
High-performance clock generator with <100fs RMS jitter and 10 differential outputs for 5G and data center applications.
Product Overview
Description
The AU5430 is a high-performance clock generator designed for demanding applications such as 5G base stations, high-speed networking, and data center equipment. It provides ultra-low jitter performance with RMS phase jitter below 100fs.
With 10 differential outputs configurable as LVDS, LVPECL, or HCSL, the AU5430 can drive multiple devices from a single clock source. The integrated fractional-N PLL allows flexible frequency synthesis from a standard crystal reference.
The device supports hitless reference switching for telecom applications requiring redundancy. Configuration is performed through an I2C interface, allowing dynamic frequency changes and output enable control.
Product Series
AU
Primary Application
5G base station clocks
Key Features
- Ultra-low <100fs RMS jitter
- 10 configurable differential outputs
- Fractional-N PLL for flexible synthesis
- Hitless reference switching
- I2C configuration interface
- 3.3V single supply operation
Specifications
| RMS Jitter | <100fs (12kHz-20MHz) |
|---|---|
| Output Frequency | 1MHz to 2.1GHz |
| Outputs | 10 differential |
| Output Types | LVDS/LVPECL/HCSL |
| Reference Input | Crystal or CLK |
| Package | QFN-48 |
Applications
5G base station clocks
Electronic system design
100G/400G Ethernet
Communication and interface
High-speed ADC/DAC clocks
Data acquisition and conversion
FPGA/ASIC reference clocks
Electronic system design
Telecom synchronization
Electronic system design
FAE Expert Insights
"The AU5430 is our flagship clock generator for high-performance applications. I've deployed it in multiple 5G base station designs with excellent results. The jitter performance is outstanding - consistently below 100fs even with all outputs active. The fractional-N PLL provides excellent flexibility for generating non-standard frequencies. The hitless switching feature works well for telecom redundancy requirements. One tip: use a high-quality crystal reference (±10ppm or better) for best jitter performance. The I2C interface makes it easy to reconfigure on the fly. Overall, an excellent choice for demanding clock applications."
Flagship clock generator with <100fs jitter and 10 outputs
— David Chen, BeiLuo
Frequently Asked Questions
What reference crystal should I use?
For best jitter performance, use a high-quality crystal with ±10ppm frequency stability and low phase noise. Aurasemi recommends crystals with 25MHz or 50MHz fundamental frequency. Avoid overtone crystals as they have higher phase noise. The crystal load capacitance should match the AU5430's internal load capacitance (typically 12-20pF).
Use ±10ppm 25/50MHz crystal for best jitter performance.
How do I configure output frequencies?
The AU5430 uses a fractional-N PLL that can generate any output frequency from 1MHz to 2.1GHz. Configuration is performed through the I2C interface: (1) Set PLL multiplier and divider values; (2) Configure output dividers for each channel; (3) Select output type (LVDS/LVPECL/HCSL); (4) Enable desired outputs. The Aurasemi ClockBuilder software helps calculate optimal divider values for your target frequencies.
Use ClockBuilder software to calculate divider values, then program via I2C.
Can I use different output types simultaneously?
Yes, each of the 10 outputs can be independently configured as LVDS, LVPECL, or HCSL. This flexibility allows you to drive different types of devices from the same clock generator. However, note that LVPECL and HCSL outputs require different termination schemes. The output type is configured through I2C registers, allowing dynamic changes if needed.
Each output independently configurable; mix types as needed for your application.
What is hitless reference switching?
Hitless reference switching allows the AU5430 to switch between two reference clocks without causing output phase disturbances. This is critical for telecom applications requiring redundancy. When the primary reference fails, the device automatically switches to the backup reference while maintaining output clock continuity. The switching is 'hitless' - no phase jump or missing clock cycles occur.
Enable hitless switching for telecom redundancy applications.
How do I minimize crosstalk between outputs?
To minimize crosstalk: (1) Use proper power supply decoupling - place 0.1μF and 10μF capacitors close to each power pin; (2) Isolate output pairs - maintain 3W spacing between differential pairs; (3) Use ground vias - place ground vias between output pairs; (4) Symmetrical layout - keep trace lengths matched within each pair; (5) Termination - use proper differential termination at receivers. Following these guidelines ensures specified jitter performance even with all outputs active.
Use proper decoupling, spacing, and termination to minimize crosstalk.