Infineon Technologies CY2544QC023

Overview

CY2544QC023 from Cypress Semiconductor is a quad-PLL programmable clock generator with spread spectrum capability, designed for precise multi-frequency synthesis in timing-critical systems. It delivers nine programmable LVCMOS clock outputs (3–166 MHz), supports 1.8 V/2.5 V/3.0 V/3.3 V bank-specific output voltages, integrates Fractional-N PLLs for zero-PPM error synthesis, and features glitch-free frequency switching via FS0–FS2 control pins - used in PC motherboard clock trees and embedded networking platforms.

For engineers reviewing the CY2544QC023 datasheet, CY2544QC023 pinout, CY2544QC023 application, or CY2544QC023 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 24-pin QFN package, four independent PLLs with spread spectrum on PLL3/PLL4, bank-specific VDD_CLK_Bx supplies, multifunction pins (CLK3/FS0, CLK4/FS2, CLK7/SSON), and one-time programmability for custom frequency and EMI profiles.

Technical Context

The CY2544QC023 implements four fully integrated, independently configurable PLLs - PLL1 through PLL4 - each supporting fractional-N synthesis to generate nonstandard frequencies with ≤±0.1 ppm accuracy. Input reference options include an 8–48 MHz crystal (XIN/EXCLKIN) or 8–166 MHz external clock (CLKIN), with input voltage compatibility at 1.8 V (CY2544 variant).

Spread spectrum modulation is implemented exclusively on PLL3 and PLL4, offering selectable center-spread (±0.125% to ±2.5%) or down-spread (–0.25% to –5.0%) ranges using Lexmark or Linear profiles, controlled via CLK7/SSON pin. Output banks (Bank1: CLK1–CLK3; Bank2: CLK4–CLK6; Bank3: CLK7–CLK9) are powered by separate VDD_CLK_Bx rails, enabling mixed-voltage clock distribution.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24-pin QFN (4 mm × 4 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), thermally enhanced with exposed pad; pin-compatible across CY2544/CY2546/CY2548 family with bank-specific voltage assignments and multifunction I/O.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

CY2544QC023 alternatives support similar quad-PLL architecture and spread spectrum but differ in voltage support and programming flexibility.

Compared with Si5332A-D-GM and ICS843002AGI-01LFT, CY2544QC023 offers unique one-time programmability, true 1.8 V operation, bank-specific voltage rails, and selectable Lexmark/Linear spread spectrum - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, mixed-voltage embedded systems requiring EMI certification without external memory.

Availability

CY2544QC023 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for PC motherboard design, network switch timing subsystems, and industrial PLC backplane applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and consistent OTP programming support.

Supply support for CY2544QC023 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Cypress Semiconductor (now part of Infineon Technologies) is a fabless semiconductor company specializing in programmable system-on-chip (PSoC), memory, and precision timing solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

CY2544QC023 belongs to Cypress's programmable clock generator product line, engineered to replace multiple fixed-frequency oscillators with a single configurable device for EMI reduction, board space savings, and design flexibility in complex timing architectures.

FAQ

What is the maximum output frequency supported by CY2544QC023?

CY2544QC023 supports a maximum output frequency of 166 MHz across all nine clock outputs. This limit applies regardless of input source (crystal or external clock) and is maintained under full load conditions with specified VDD and VDD_CLK_Bx supply voltages. The device achieves this using fractional-N synthesis within its four PLLs, with jitter performance verified up to 166 MHz in the official datasheet AC specifications table.

Does CY2544QC023 require external configuration memory?

No, CY2544QC023 contains on-chip one-time programmable (OTP) memory that stores all configuration data including PLL coefficients, spread spectrum parameters, output drive strength, and crystal load capacitance. No external EEPROM or flash memory is required, simplifying BOM and eliminating boot-time configuration delays. Programming is performed once at manufacturing or by authorized partners using Cypress-provided tools.

Can CY2544QC023 generate different output voltages simultaneously?

Yes, CY2544QC023 supports simultaneous mixed-voltage outputs via three independent power domains: VDD_CLK_B1 (CLK1–CLK3), VDD_CLK_B2 (CLK4–CLK6), and VDD_CLK_B3 (CLK7–CLK9). Each bank accepts 1.8 V, 2.5 V, 3.0 V, or 3.3 V, allowing concurrent generation of 1.8 V USB clocks and 3.3 V legacy peripheral clocks without level shifters - confirmed in the Device Selection Guide and Pin Definitions sections of the datasheet.

How is spread spectrum enabled or disabled on CY2544QC023?

Spread spectrum is controlled via the CLK7/SSON multifunction pin (Pin 15). When configured as SSON, driving this pin low disables spread spectrum on PLL3 and PLL4; driving it high enables the programmed profile (center or down spread). Configuration is retained in OTP memory, so SSON operates as a hardware override - not a register bit - ensuring deterministic behavior during power-up and reset sequences.