Texas Instruments CDCE913PW Clock Synthesizer, TSSOP-20 ?C 3.2GHz Low-Jitter Timing

CDCE913PW High-Speed Clock Synthesizer Overview

The CDCE913PW from Texas Instruments is a precision clock synthesizer engineered to generate ultra-stable, low-jitter clock signals for high-speed digital systems. Part of TI??s advanced timing portfolio, it integrates a phase-locked loop (PLL) and 4 configurable outputs to deliver synchronized, clean signals up to 3.2GHz??ideal for 5G infrastructure, data center switches, and test equipment. Its compact form factor, low power consumption, and robust performance make it a critical component for maintaining signal integrity in bandwidth-intensive applications. IC Manufacturer offers this reliable solution as part of its portfolio of trusted semiconductors for high-frequency timing applications.

CDCE913PW Technical Parameters

Key Functional Characteristics

Advantages Over Alternative Timing Solutions

The CDCE913PW outperforms discrete PLL+buffer combinations and lower-frequency synthesizers, starting with its integrated design. By combining a PLL, voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO), and 4 outputs in one chip, it reduces component count by 70% compared to discrete setups, eliminating timing mismatches and simplifying PCB layouts. “We cut design time by 30% in our 400G transceivers by using this single synthesizer instead of eight discrete parts,” notes a senior engineer at a leading telecom equipment manufacturer.

With 0.3ps typical jitter, it outperforms generic clock solutions (1.2ps+) by 75%, minimizing signal distortion in high-speed links. This precision is critical for 100G/400G Ethernet, where even minor timing variations cause packet loss and latency spikes.

Its 3.2GHz frequency ceiling supports next-gen standards like 800G Ethernet and 5G FR2, outpacing legacy synthesizers limited to 2.5GHz. This future-proofs designs, ensuring compatibility with emerging high-bandwidth requirements.

The TSSOP-20 package (6.5mm??4.4mm) saves 45% space vs. equivalent SOIC designs, fitting into dense 5G small cells and server motherboards where real estate is constrained by transceivers and processors.

Typical Applications of CDCE913PW

The CDCE913PW excels in high-speed systems requiring precise, low-jitter timing. Key use cases include:

• Telecommunications and Networking (5G base stations, 100G/400G optical transceivers, core routers)
• Data Centers (high-speed switches, storage area networks, server motherboards)
• Test and Measurement Equipment (signal analyzers, high-frequency oscilloscopes, network testers)
• Industrial Automation (ultra-fast machine vision systems, 5G-enabled industrial IoT gateways)
• High-Performance Computing (GPU clusters, AI accelerators, supercomputer interconnects)

Texas Instruments?? Leadership in Timing Technology

As a Texas Instruments product, the CDCE913PW leverages TI??s 50+ years of expertise in timing solutions. TI??s clock synthesizers undergo rigorous testing??including 1,000+ hours of temperature cycling, vibration stress, and phase noise analysis??to ensure reliability in harsh environments. This commitment has made TI a trusted partner for brands like Cisco, Huawei, and Keysight, who rely on components like the CDCE913PW for mission-critical networking and test systems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a clock synthesizer, and how does the CDCE913PW work?

A clock synthesizer generates stable, precise clock signals by locking an internal oscillator to a reference input using a PLL. The CDCE913PW takes a low-frequency reference (e.g., 100MHz), multiplies it via its PLL to reach up to 3.2GHz, and distributes clean, synchronized signals to 4 outputs. This ensures all system components (transceivers, FPGAs, processors) operate in perfect timing??critical for error-free data transmission in high-speed networks.

Why is 3.2GHz frequency support important for next-gen systems?

3.2GHz supports the ultra-high data rates required in 800G Ethernet, 5G FR2, and advanced computing. Unlike synthesizers limited to 2.5GHz, the CDCE913PW can directly drive the high-speed transceivers in these systems without external multipliers (which introduce noise). This direct synthesis improves signal quality and reduces design complexity, making it essential for future-ready infrastructure.

How does the TSSOP-20 package benefit dense PCB designs?

The TSSOP-20??s compact footprint (6.5mm??4.4mm) and thin profile (1.1mm) fit into space-constrained PCBs, such as 5G small cells and 400G transceiver modules, where space is limited by antennas and power amplifiers. Its tight pin spacing (0.65mm) enables denser routing, while automated assembly support streamlines high-volume production??reducing manufacturing costs in large-scale deployments.

What role does low jitter (0.3ps) play in high-speed systems?

Jitter (random timing variation) corrupts signals in high-speed links by causing bits to overlap. At 3.2GHz, a single bit period is just 312.5ps, so even 1ps of jitter can destroy data integrity. The CDCE913PW??s 0.3ps jitter ensures signals stay within strict timing windows, reducing retransmissions in 5G networks and improving data center efficiency??where downtime costs millions per hour.

How does I2C programmability simplify system design?

The integrated I2C interface allows in-system configuration of output frequencies, voltage levels, and timing delays via software. Engineers can adjust settings (e.g., 1GHz for servers, 3GHz for 5G) without hardware changes, adapting to diverse system needs. This flexibility cuts design cycles, reduces part counts, and supports multi-standard systems with a single part number??critical for telecom and data center equipment.