Introduction

When choosing an “oscillator,” the difference between materials such as crystal, MEMS, silicon, etc. is important.

Another decisive factor is whether the oscillator is “programmable”.

In this article, we will focus on “programmable oscillators” and explain their merits.

All SiTime MEMS oscillators are programmable.

In the second half of the article, I would like to see what kind of programs can be done while actually looking at the data sheet.

What is a programmable oscillator?

principle

A programmable oscillator has a “built-in PLL circuit”.

This PLL circuit divides/multiplies the input frequency (oscillator) and outputs an arbitrary frequency.

This allows customers to "select any combination of frequency, accuracy, etc." from the list of specifications provided.

merit

The advantage of adopting it is its “flexibility”.

It is possible to significantly shorten the lead time by securing a raw product for writing at the end as a sample or wafer.

In addition, SiTime products can also purchase "writing tools".

In the case of prototypes, customers can “write freely” to evaluate and compare various types of samples.

It seems that some customers are using it for training new employees.

Some people may be concerned about the "current consumption and noise (jitter)" of the PLL circuit.

It was already 10 years ago that they were a big disadvantage.

Their performance is improving along with the progress of analog circuit technology.

SiTime's MEMS oscillator also uses a delta-sigma modulator after the PLL to cancel jitter and significantly improve performance.

Check out SiTime's programmable MEMS oscillator!

programmable item

Since SiTime's MEMS oscillator has a built-in decimal point PLL (Fractional PLL), it is possible to handle any frequency up to 6 digits after the decimal point.

 

Here the generic and most There is also a track record of replacing crystal products.SiT8008 I would like to delve into the series.

SiT8008 can be ordered by freely selecting the following specifications.

 

· frequency

・ Frequency deviation (also called frequency accuracy. Unit: ppm)

・ Operating temperature range

・ Package size

・ Drive strength (adjustment of output drive)

· Power-supply voltage

・Feature Pin (standby, enable, and NC can be set)

data sheet

Actually, let's take a look at the "data sheet" of this product.

Unlike the crystal data sheet, the details are properly described in the same way as the semiconductor IC.

On page 13, you can find “Ordering Information”, that is, “Check the list of program options”.

All SiTime products have an “Ordering Information” section in the datasheet.

  

Below is the Japanese version. It doesn't look much different.

Once all selectable specifications are specified, the full model number (required model number when ordering) is complete!

 

If you are having trouble determining the model number

If you have trouble deciding on the model number, or if you are unsure whether the completed model number matches the model number, please contact Macnica.

SiTime also has a wide range of tools, such as the ones below, that customers can use as well.

Model number generation tool (for SiT8008)

Check the specifications from the model number

At the end

What did you think.

This time, it was a commentary article focusing on programmable oscillators.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us below.