NXP Semiconductors MPC9109FA

Overview

MPC9109FA from Freescale Semiconductor is a low-voltage 1:18 clock distribution IC with dual-supply flexibility (2.5 V or 3.3 V core and output), LVPECL/LVCMOS selectable input, 18 LVCMOS outputs, and 200 ps max output-to-output skew at 3.3 V - enabling precise clock fanout for Pentium II™-based synchronous systems.

For engineers reviewing the MPC9109FA datasheet, MPC9109FA pinout, MPC9109FA application, or MPC9109FA equivalent, key selection criteria include input interface compatibility (LVPECL vs. LVCMOS), output voltage configuration (2.5 V/3.3 V), skew performance under load, supply voltage flexibility, and QFP package integration in high-density timing trees.

Technical Context

The MPC9109FA implements a single-stage buffer architecture with independently configurable input selection (LVCMOS_CLK_Sel pin) and dual power domains: VCCI for core logic and VCCO for output drivers. Its 20 Ω typical output impedance supports series-terminated 50 Ω transmission lines, enabling up to two loads per output (effective 1:36 fanout).

It operates across three supply configurations: (1) 3.3 V VCCI + 3.3 V VCCO, (2) 3.3 V VCCI + 2.5 V VCCO, and (3) 2.5 V VCCI + 2.5 V VCCO - with corresponding max input frequencies of 250 MHz, 250 MHz, and 200 MHz respectively, and output skew varying from 200 ps to 250 ps depending on supply mode.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MPC9109FA is housed in a 32-lead LQFP (Low-profile Quad Flat Package), 7×7 mm body, 0.8 mm lead pitch, case number 873A-04, Pb-free (FA suffix). Pinout is identical to the base MPC9109 in TQFP top-view orientation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPC940L and MC100EP196, the MPC9109FA offers optimal balance of LVCMOS compatibility, dual-supply flexibility, and 200 ps skew in cost-sensitive embedded and legacy computing designs - without requiring negative supplies or redesigning power delivery.

Availability

MPC9109FA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for Pentium II™ platform refurbishment, PCI-X backplane upgrades, DDR memory subsystems, and industrial control backplane timing requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle support.

Supply support for MPC9109FA 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

Freescale Semiconductor was a global leader in embedded processing, analog, and connectivity solutions, later acquired by NXP Semiconductors in 2015; its clock driver portfolio remains widely deployed in legacy and industrial systems.

The MPC9109FA belongs to Freescale's Advanced Clock Drivers Devices family, engineered specifically for low-skew, multi-output clock distribution in high-performance computing and communications platforms requiring precise timing alignment across heterogeneous logic families.

FAQ

What input clock types does the MPC9109FA support?

The MPC9109FA supports two input clock types: differential LVPECL (via PECL_CLK pins) and single-ended LVCMOS (via LVCMOS_CLK pin), selected by the logic level on the LVCMOS_CLK_Sel pin. Internal pull-up/pull-down resistors allow unused inputs to be left floating without external biasing. This dual-input capability enables flexible integration with both high-speed differential sources and standard CMOS oscillators in the same design.

Does the MPC9109FA require separate power supplies for core and I/O?

Yes, the MPC9109FA uses two independent supply rails: VCCI powers the internal logic and input buffers, while VCCO powers the 18 output drivers. This separation allows independent voltage selection - e.g., 3.3 V VCCI with 2.5 V VCCO for Pentium II™ compatibility - and reduces noise coupling between sensitive core circuitry and high-current output switching.

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the MPC9109FA?

The MPC9109FA supports a maximum input frequency of 250 MHz when operated with 3.3 V VCCO, and 200 MHz when operated with 2.5 V VCCO. These limits are specified across the full commercial temperature range (0°C to 70°C) and are validated per Freescale's AC characterization tables - not extrapolated or estimated.

Is the MPC9109FA pin-compatible with other devices in the MPC91xx family?

The MPC9109FA shares the same 32-lead LQFP package and pinout as the base MPC9109, including identical terminal assignments for Q0–Q17, VCCI, VCCO, GND, GNDO, GNDI, PECL_CLK, LVCMOS_CLK, and LVCMOS_CLK_Sel. However, it is not pin-compatible with MPC940L or MPC942, which use different pinouts and enhanced AC specifications despite similar packaging.

What does the "FA" suffix indicate in MPC9109FA?

The "FA" suffix denotes a Pb-free (lead-free) version of the MPC9109 in the 32-lead LQFP package (case 873A-04), compliant with RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC. It is functionally and electrically identical to the non-Pb-free "AC" suffix variant, with identical timing, voltage, and thermal specifications - differing only in finish and environmental compliance.