NXP Semiconductors MPC9230FN

Overview

MPC9230FN from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 3.3 V, PLL-based low-voltage PECL clock synthesizer with differential LVPECL outputs, on-chip crystal oscillator, and dual serial/parallel programming interfaces. It delivers programmable output frequencies from 50 MHz to 750 MHz over –40°C to +85°C, supporting telecom and networking systems requiring sub-160 ps cycle-to-cycle jitter and precise timing control.

For engineers reviewing the MPC9230FN datasheet, MPC9230FN pinout, MPC9230FN application, or MPC9230FN equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, package-specific pin mapping for the 28-lead PLCC (Case 776-02), real-world jitter performance at temperature extremes, and validated alternative options for clock tree design continuity.

Technical Context

The MPC9230FN integrates a SiGe-based PLL with an internal VCO operating from 800–1500 MHz at –40°C to +85°C, fed by either an external 10–20 MHz crystal (via XTAL_IN/XTAL_OUT) or an LVCMOS reference clock (FREF_EXT). Its feedback divider M (9-bit, 0–511) and post-divider N (2-bit, ÷1/÷2/÷4/÷8) jointly determine output frequency per FOUT = (fXTAL ÷ 8) × M ÷ N.

Power supply separation isolates the analog VCC_PLL rail (max 20 mA) from digital VCC rails (max 110 mA total), minimizing noise-induced jitter. The TEST output supports diagnostic visibility into internal nodes-including PLL bypass mode (T[2:0]=110)-but must remain static during normal operation to meet guaranteed jitter specs.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 28-lead PLCC (Case 776-02), lead-free compatible, body size 11.43 mm × 11.43 mm × 3.56 mm.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC12430 and ICS853S01I, the MPC9230FN uniquely combines on-chip crystal oscillator, LVPECL outputs, and SiGe-based jitter performance in a single PLCC-28 package-making it optimal for new telecom and industrial designs prioritizing integration and phase noise.

Availability

MPC9230FN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for optical transport equipment, Gigabit Ethernet switches, industrial edge servers, and PCI-X add-in cards requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MPC9230FN 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

NXP Semiconductors acquired Freescale in 2015 and maintains full support for legacy timing products including the MPC9230 family. NXP is a global leader in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The MPC9230FN belongs to NXP's Advanced Clock Drivers portfolio, designed specifically for mid-to-high-performance telecom and networking infrastructure requiring low-jitter, programmable clock synthesis with integrated oscillator functionality.

FAQ

What is the maximum guaranteed output frequency of the MPC9230FN over its full operating temperature range?

The MPC9230FN guarantees an output frequency up to 750 MHz at –40°C to +85°C ambient temperature. This limit arises from the derated VCO range (800–1500 MHz) at industrial temperatures, as documented in Table 9 of the datasheet. At 0°C to +70°C, the device supports up to 800 MHz output. The MPC9230FN achieves this via configurable PLL dividers M and N, with N=11 (÷1) enabling the highest output band.

Does the MPC9230FN require an external crystal, and what specifications must it meet?

Yes, the MPC9230FN requires an external series-resonant AT-cut crystal connected to XTAL_IN and XTAL_OUT. Per Table 14, the crystal must operate between 10–20 MHz, exhibit ±75 ppm tolerance at 25°C, ±150 ppm stability from 0°C to 70°C, shunt capacitance of 5–7 pF, and ESR of 50–80 Ω. Parallel-resonant crystals may be used but introduce ~few hundred ppm frequency error due to mode mismatch.

How does the TEST pin affect jitter performance of the MPC9230FN, and when should it be used?

The TEST pin must remain static during normal operation of the MPC9230FN to meet guaranteed jitter specifications (80–160 ps). Any active signal on TEST introduces coupling into the PLL's sensitive analog circuitry, increasing period and cycle-to-cycle jitter. It is intended solely for debug-e.g., PLL bypass mode (T[2:0]=110) for board-level functional testing at ≤50 MHz-and should be disabled in production firmware.

Is the MPC9230FN pin-compatible with any other clock synthesizers, and what does that mean for design reuse?

Yes, the MPC9230FN is pin- and function-compatible with the MC12430, sharing identical 28-lead PLCC (Case 776-02) footprint, pin assignments, and register-level programming interface. This allows direct replacement in existing designs without PCB changes, while delivering improved jitter performance and SiGe process benefits. Compatibility is explicitly stated in the Freescale datasheet's "Pin and function compatible to the MC12430" feature bullet.

What power supply filtering is recommended for the VCC_PLL pin of the MPC9230FN to maintain low jitter?

A dedicated RC filter is recommended for the MPC9230FN's VCC_PLL pin: a 10–15 Ω resistor in series with a 22 µF bulk capacitor (CF), plus 0.01–0.1 µF ceramic bypass capacitors (C1/C2) placed close to the pin. This configuration targets 1 kHz–1 MHz noise attenuation, critical because VCC_PLL supplies the VCO and phase detector. The resistor value ensures ≤465 mV DC drop at 20 mA max current, maintaining minimum 2.835 V at the pin.