Today this blog will help you to learn more what the clock buffers are and give you a detailed guide to choose the suitable model of top 6 clock buffers. Let's start now!

Definition

A clock buffer, also known as a clock driver, distributes clock signals to various parts of a system with minimal skew and jitter. The primary function of a clock buffer is to take a single clock input and provide multiple clock outputs, making the clock signal reaches different components simultaneously and with consistent timing. This synchronization is typically used in high-speed digital systems, such as computer processors, memory modules, and communication networks.

The structure of a clock buffer typically includes an input stage, amplification and buffering stages, and multiple output stages. The input stage receives the original clock signal and may include filtering to clean up any noise.

Working Principle

The working principle of a clock buffer involves receiving a single clock input signal, amplifying it, and then distributing it to multiple outputs with minimal skew and jitter. The process begins at the input stage, where the clock buffer receives the incoming clock signal. Next, the signal is passed through amplification and buffering stages to strengthen the clock signal. Finally, the output stages distribute the amplified clock signal to various parts of the system.

6 Recommended Clock Buffers[Models & Features]

CY2CC910OXI-1

The CY2CC910OXI-1 is a high-performance clock buffer for applications requiring low jitter and precise clock distribution. It is suitable for high-speed networking and communication systems.

Features:

• Low additive jitter: 0.15 ps RMS

• Supply voltage range: 2.375V to 3.465V

• Output frequency: Up to 200 MHz

• Differential input and output

• Operating temperature range: -40°C to 85°C

• Output skew: 50 ps typical

889872AKLF

The 889872AKLF is a versatile clock buffer with multiple differential outputs, ideal for high-frequency applications such as data centers and telecom infrastructure.

Features:

• Differential outputs: Up to 8

• Maximum output frequency: 800 MHz

• Supply voltage range: 2.5V to 3.3V

• Additive phase jitter: 0.25 ps RMS typical

• Low skew: 50 ps maximum

• ESD protection: 2 kV HBM

PL686-35DC

The PL686-35DC is a low-skew clock buffer for use in high-reliability and timing-sensitive applications, including telecommunications and computing systems.

Features:

• Low output skew: 50 ps typical

• Frequency range: 10 MHz to 200 MHz

• Supply voltage: 3.3V

• Differential input and output

• Low power consumption: 50 mA typical

• Operating temperature range: -40°C to 85°C

IDT49FCT805SOI8

The IDT49FCT805SOI8 is a high-speed clock buffer with low propagation delay, which can be used for applications that require precise timing and fast signal distribution.

Features:

• Low propagation delay: 2.5 ns typical

• Frequency range: DC to 133 MHz

• Supply voltage: 5V

• Output skew: 200 ps maximum

• Input capacitance: 4 pF typical

• High drive capability: 24 mA output

ICS85354AKLF

The ICS85354AKLF is a low-skew, high-frequency clock buffer with multiple outputs, suitable for clock distribution in advanced computing and communication systems.

Features:

• Low output skew: 50 ps maximum

• Maximum output frequency: 700 MHz

• Supply voltage range: 2.5V to 3.3V

• Additive phase jitter: 0.3 ps RMS typical

• Differential LVPECL outputs

• Operating temperature range: -40°C to 85°C

85211BMI-03LNT

The 85211BMI-03LNT is a low-jitter, high-performance clock buffer with multiple outputs, applied to precision clock distribution in high-speed data and communication systems.

Features:

• Low jitter: 0.3 ps RMS

• Maximum output frequency: 250 MHz

• Supply voltage range: 2.375V to 3.465V

• Differential inputs and outputs

• Output skew: 50 ps typical

• Operating temperature range: -40°C to 85°C

FAQs

What are differential inputs and outputs in clock buffers?

Differential inputs and outputs use pairs of signals to improve noise immunity and signal integrity, making them suitable for high-frequency and long-distance clock distribution.

What is the typical power supply range for clock buffers?

Clock buffers typically operate within a power supply range of 2.5V to 5V, depending on the specific model and application requirements.

What factors should be considered when selecting a clock buffer?

Key factors include the number of outputs, output frequency range, supply voltage range, skew, jitter, propagation delay, and compatibility with differential or single-ended signals.

Can clock buffers be used for clock multiplication or division?

Clock buffers primarily distribute and synchronize clock signals. For clock multiplication or division, devices like phase-locked loops (PLLs) or clock synthesizers are typically used.

What are some common models of clock buffers?

Common models include CY2CC910OXI-1, 889872AKLF, PL686-35DC, IDT49FCT805SOI8, ICS85354AKLF, MPC555LFMZP40 ,BTS50085-1TMA and 85211BMI-03LNT, each with specific features suited for different applications.