Si5351A/B/C

3.4. Spread Spectrum

Spread spectrum can be enabled on any of the clock outputs that use PLLA as its reference. Spread spectrum is useful for reducing electromagnetic interference (EMI). Enabling spread spectrum on an output clock modulates its frequency, which effectively reduces the overall amplitude of its radiated energy. See “AN554: Si5350/51 PCB Layout Guide” for details. Note that spread spectrum is not available on clocks synchronized to PLLB or to the VCXO.

The Si5351 supports several levels of spread spectrum allowing the designer to chose an ideal compromise between system performance and EMI compliance.

Center

Frequency

Amplitude

Reduced

Reduced

Amplitude

Amplitude

and EMI

and EMI

fc

fc

fc

No Spread

Center Spread

Down Spread

Spectrum

 

 

Figure 6. Available Spread Spectrum Profiles

3.5. Control Pins (OEB, SSEN)

The Si5351 offers control pins for enabling/disabling clock outputs and spread spectrum.

3.5.1. Output Enable (OEB)

The output enable pin allows enabling or disabling outputs clocks. Output clocks are enabled when the OEB pin is held low, and disabled when pulled high. When disabled, the output state is configurable as disabled high, disabled low, or disabled in high-impedance.

The output enable control circuitry ensures glitchless operation by starting the output clock cycle on the first leading edge after OEB is pulled low. When OEB is pulled high, the clock is allowed to complete its full clock cycle before going into a disabled state.

3.5.2. Spread Spectrum Enable (SSEN)—Si5351A and Si5351B only

This control pin allows disabling the spread spectrum feature for all outputs that were configured with spread spectrum enabled. Hold SSEN low to disable spread spectrum. The SSEN pin provides a convenient method of evaluating the effect of using spread spectrum clocks during EMI compliance testing.

Preliminary Rev. 0.95

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Silicon Laboratories SI5351A/B/C specifications Spread Spectrum, Control Pins OEB, Ssen, Output Enable OEB

SI5351A/B/C specifications

Silicon Laboratories SI5351A/B/C is a versatile, low-power clock generator and frequency synthesizer that has gained widespread popularity in various applications, including telecommunications, consumer electronics, and industrial control systems. These devices are primarily designed to provide precise clock frequency generation with low phase noise and jitter, making them ideal for high-performance applications.

One of the standout features of the SI5351 is its ability to generate multiple output frequencies simultaneously. Capable of producing up to three independent programmable outputs, the SI5351A/B/C can generate frequencies ranging from 8 kHz to 160 MHz. With its integrated phase-locked loop (PLL) technology, it achieves excellent frequency stability and accuracy, simplifying the design of frequency-dependent systems.

The device operates under a supply voltage range of 1.8V to 3.6V, allowing it to be used in battery-powered applications without excessive power consumption. The SI5351’s low current draw, typically as low as 25 mA, is especially beneficial in portable devices, extending battery life and enhancing overall efficiency. Furthermore, it features a programmable output driver, which can be set to various drive strengths, ensuring compatibility with a wide array of load requirements.

Configuration and control of the SI5351 are user-friendly, implemented via an I2C interface. This allows for straightforward integration into microcontroller-based designs. Moreover, the device includes an on-chip memory that stores settings, which streamlines the reconfiguration process when power cycling, minimizing setup time for developers.

Another significant advantage of the SI5351A/B/C is its output jitter performance, which is typically below 1 ps, resulting in clean output signals essential for high-speed data communications and precise timing applications. The SI5351’s integration of multiple synthesizer stages contributes to its impressive phase noise characteristics, making it suitable for demanding RF applications.

Additionally, the SI5351 devices offer programmable frequency stepping, allowing users to define custom frequency increments, which is particularly useful in applications requiring precise tuning or modulation. This flexibility, combined with its compact size and simple interface, makes the SI5351A/B/C an ideal choice for engineers seeking a reliable, cost-effective solution for generating clock signals in a myriad of electronic systems.

In summary, Silicon Laboratories SI5351A/B/C provides a robust, low-power solution for high-precision clock generation, characterized by its programmable outputs, low jitter, easy configurability, and broad frequency range, making it an excellent choice for both commercial and industrial applications across various sectors.