Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated DS4077L-GCN

Overview

DS4077L-GCN from Maxim Integrated is a voltage-controlled crystal oscillator (VCXO) module delivering precise, tunable reference clock generation for telecom/datacom infrastructure and wireless base stations. It operates at 106.25MHz nominal frequency, supports LVCMOS output, achieves <0.8ps RMS jitter (12kHz–20MHz), and offers ±69ppm absolute pull range over a 3.135V–3.465V supply. Its role is system-level clock synthesis requiring low phase noise in synchronized timing applications.

For engineers reviewing the DS4077L-GCN datasheet, DS4077L-GCN pinout, DS4077L-GCN application, or DS4077L-GCN equivalent, key selection criteria include VCXO tuning sensitivity (41–164ppm/V), LVCMOS drive capability (±450µA), thermal stability (±20ppm over –40°C to +85°C), and 14mm × 9mm LGA package compatibility with high-density RF board layouts.

Technical Context

The DS4077L-GCN integrates a fundamental-mode quartz crystal with a proprietary oscillator IC, enabling direct voltage-controlled frequency adjustment via the VC pin without external varactor diodes. Its architecture delivers stable oscillation with minimal sensitivity to supply variation (±11.5ppm over VDD = 3.3V ±5%) and load capacitance (–1ppm/pF).

Phase noise performance is optimized for synchronization-critical systems: –125dBc/Hz at 1kHz offset and –150dBc/Hz at 100kHz offset (LVCMOS, 106.25MHz). Jitter is specified as ≤0.8ps RMS across the 12kHz–20MHz integration band-meeting SONET/SDH and CPRI timing requirements for 10G/25G optical interfaces.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

DS4077L-GCN uses a 9-pin plastic LGA package (14mm × 9mm × 3.06mm), transfer-molded, with exposed pad not connected internally. Pin 1 is VC (tuning voltage input); pins 2,5,7,8,9 are no-connect; pin 3 is VSS (ground); pin 4 is LVCMOS output; pin 6 is VDD (3.3V supply).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar VCXO applications.

Compared with Si510-AC106M250 and AK2-106.250MHZ-E, the DS4077L-GCN uniquely balances compact LGA packaging, industry-leading jitter, and sufficient APR for modern telecom PLLs-making it optimal for space-constrained, synchronization-critical 5G and OTN designs.

Availability

DS4077L-GCN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for CPRI baseband units, OTN line cards, SONET/SDH ADMs, and wireless small cell backhaul systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and multi-year production cycles.

Supply support for DS4077L-GCN 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

Maxim Integrated (now part of Analog Devices) is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in precision analog, mixed-signal, and timing solutions for communications, industrial, and computing markets.

The DS4077L-GCN belongs to Maxim's high-stability VCXO product line, engineered specifically for telecom infrastructure where low jitter, tight thermal stability, and robust tuning range are mandatory for synchronization integrity.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable supply voltage ripple for stable operation of the DS4077L-GCN?

The DS4077L-GCN specifies VDD supply current of 25–35mA for fOUT > 106.25MHz and requires clean 3.3V power. Ripple should be limited to <20mVpp (10Hz–100MHz) to avoid injecting spurs into the 106.25MHz output. Use a dedicated LDO with ≥60dB PSRR at 100kHz and local 100nF ceramic + 10µF tantalum decoupling directly at the DS4077L-GCN VDD pin.

Can the DS4077L-GCN be used with an LVDS receiver despite its LVCMOS output?

No-the DS4077L-GCN variant has LVCMOS output only (as indicated by "-GCN" suffix); it lacks differential LVDS drivers. For LVDS interface, select DS4077L-GDN (same frequency, same package, LVDS output). Attempting to connect DS4077L-GCN to an LVDS receiver risks signal integrity failure due to voltage level mismatch (LVCMOS 0–3.3V vs. LVDS ±0.35V differential).

What is the recommended PCB layout practice for the VC pin on the DS4077L-GCN?

The VC pin of the DS4077L-GCN is high-impedance (leakage ±500nA) and highly sensitive to noise. Route it as a short, guarded trace away from digital switching nodes and RF traces. Place a 100nF ceramic capacitor from VC to VSS within 2mm of the pin, and use a low-noise voltage source (e.g., filtered DAC output or precision reference) with series 10Ω resistor to dampen resonance.

Does the DS4077L-GCN require external load capacitors for the integrated crystal?

No-the DS4077L-GCN integrates both the fundamental-mode quartz crystal and oscillator circuitry in a hermetically sealed LGA package. No external load capacitors, trimming components, or crystal matching networks are needed. This simplifies design, improves reliability, and eliminates crystal-related aging and solder-joint fatigue concerns.

How does aging affect long-term frequency stability of the DS4077L-GCN in deployed systems?

The DS4077L-GCN exhibits ≤±5ppm aging in the first year and ≤±10ppm over 10 years. In systems relying on holdover timing (e.g., during GNSS outage), this translates to <0.1ppm/day drift after initial stabilization. For critical applications, pair DS4077L-GCN with a microcontroller-based calibration routine that reads VC voltage and adjusts PLL feedback dividers to compensate for cumulative aging.