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Phase-Locked Source Clocks at 2.5 GHz

Sept. 11, 2015
A synthesized source includes a frequency reference for generation of low-noise, sine wave outputs at 2.5 GHz.
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Model CRFS75-2500 is an SMT-packaged, PLL clock source with low-noise, fixed-sine-wave output of 2.5 GHz.

Stable sources are vital for maintaining time and frequency in most networks and radios, and the model CRFS75-2500 phase-locked clock source from Crystek Microwave shows its stability at 2.5 GHz in terms of extremely low phase noise. The compact module measures just 0.75 × 0.75 in. in a surface-mount-technology (SMT) package but includes a phase-locked-loop (PLL) frequency source with internal reference. Leveraging proven surface-acoustic-wave (SAW) resonator technology, the low-noise source achieves phase noise of -105 dBc/Hz offset 10 kHz from the carrier, and -130 dBc/Hz offset 100 kHz from the carrier, with a noise floor of -167 dBc/Hz at 2.5 GHz. The root-mean-square (RMS) phase jitter is typically only 70 fs.

The compact source module produces fixed-frequency sine wave output signals at minimum output power of +5 dBm operating on a +5-V dc supply voltage, with typical current draw of 110 mA. Frequency stability is rated as ±25 ppm for an operating temperature range of –20 to +70°C. Second harmonics are typically -20 dBc.

The miniature phase-locked clock source is screened to the applicable requirements of MIL-STD-883 for mechanical shock and vibration, thermal shock, and moisture resistance for use in the most demanding applications. It is usable in a wide range of applications, including in commercial and military communications systems, electronic-warfare (EW) systems, radar, and test-and-measurement equipment.   

Crystek Corp., 12730 Commonwealth Dr., Fort Myers, FL 33913; (800) 237-3061, (239) 561-3311.

About the Author

Jack Browne | Technical Contributor

Jack Browne, Technical Contributor, has worked in technical publishing for over 30 years. He managed the content and production of three technical journals while at the American Institute of Physics, including Medical Physics and the Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology. He has been a Publisher and Editor for Penton Media, started the firm’s Wireless Symposium & Exhibition trade show in 1993, and currently serves as Technical Contributor for that company's Microwaves & RF magazine. Browne, who holds a BS in Mathematics from City College of New York and BA degrees in English and Philosophy from Fordham University, is a member of the IEEE.

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