NXP Semiconductors MPC9315FA

Overview

MPC9315FA from Freescale Semiconductor is a 2.5 V and 3.3 V CMOS PLL-based clock generator IC designed for low-skew clock distribution in telecom, networking, and computing systems. It delivers 8 LVCMOS outputs with configurable frequency ratios (1:1, 1:2, 1:4, 2:1, 4:1), 120 ps max output-to-output skew, and supports clock redundancy via dual LVCMOS inputs (CLK0/CLK1) across –40°C to +85°C.

For engineers reviewing the MPC9315FA datasheet, MPC9315FA pinout, MPC9315FA application, or MPC9315FA equivalent, this device is selected for zero-delay buffer implementations, mid-range high-performance clock fanout, phase-aligned multi-bank timing distribution, and systems requiring tristate control, spread-spectrum support, and static test mode diagnostics.

Technical Context

The MPC9315FA integrates a fully self-contained PLL with external feedback path selection (FB0/FB1) and three independent output banks (A/B/C), each controlled by dedicated divider-select pins (FSELA/FSELB/FSELC). Its VCO operates from 75 MHz to 160 MHz, enabling output frequencies from 18.75 MHz to 160 MHz depending on feedback and output divider configuration.

It implements zero-delay buffer operation by aligning output edges with the reference input edge via closed-loop PLL feedback, achieving static phase offset within ±150 ps. The device uses separate analog (VCCA) and digital (VCC) supplies to isolate PLL sensitivity from switching noise, and supports 180° phase inversion on Bank A outputs via PSELA.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 32-lead LQFP (7×7 mm², Case 873A-04), Pb-free option available. Pinout validated per Freescale MPC9315 Rev. 4 datasheet Figure 2 and Table 1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ICS853S01I and PI6C20400, the MPC9315FA uniquely combines multi-bank programmable division (including multiplication), external feedback for zero-delay alignment, 180° phase inversion, and dual-input redundancy - making it irreplaceable in telecom line cards and PowerQUICC-based systems requiring deterministic timing control.

Availability

MPC9315FA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for telecom infrastructure, networking equipment, and industrial computing applications requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and guaranteed Pb-free compliance.

Supply support for MPC9315FA 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 (now part of NXP Semiconductors) is a fabless semiconductor company specializing in embedded processing, connectivity, and analog solutions for automotive, industrial, and networking markets.

The MPC9315FA belongs to Freescale's Advanced Clock Drivers product line, engineered specifically for low-skew, multi-ratio clock generation in high-speed communication systems where phase accuracy, redundancy, and thermal robustness are critical.

FAQ

What is the function of the VCCA pin on the MPC9315FA?

The VCCA pin supplies the analog PLL circuitry of the MPC9315FA and must be filtered externally (e.g., 270 Ω resistor + 1 µF capacitor for 3.3 V operation) to suppress noise in the 100 kHz–20 MHz range. Unfiltered VCCA noise directly increases I/O phase jitter. In static test mode, pulling VCCA to GND bypasses the PLL and routes the reference clock directly to outputs - a key diagnostic feature not available on standard clock buffers.

How does the MPC9315FA achieve zero-delay buffer operation?

The MPC9315FA achieves zero-delay buffer operation by closing the PLL feedback loop externally - connecting one output (e.g., QB3) to FB0 or FB1. This forces the PLL to align the output edge precisely with the reference clock edge, minimizing static phase offset to ±150 ps. Unlike fixed-delay buffers, this alignment compensates for board trace delays, making the MPC9315FA suitable for tight-tolerance clock trees in telecom and computing backplanes.

Can the MPC9315FA generate both non-inverted and inverted clocks simultaneously?

Yes - the MPC9315FA supports simultaneous 0° and 180° phase outputs on Bank A (QA0 and QA1) via the PSELA pin. When PSELA = high, QA0 is inverted relative to QA1 while maintaining identical frequency and skew. This eliminates the need for external inverters in DDR or differential clocking applications, preserving signal integrity and reducing component count in timing-critical designs using the MPC9315FA.

What are the valid input frequency ranges for the MPC9315FA under 2.5 V and 3.3 V supply conditions?

Under 3.3 V supply, the MPC9315FA accepts reference inputs from 18.75 MHz (with ÷4 feedback) up to 160 MHz (with ÷1 feedback). Under 2.5 V supply, minimum input is 18.75 MHz (÷4 feedback), but ÷1 feedback is not supported - max input is 80 MHz (÷2 feedback). These limits ensure the internal VCO remains within its 75–160 MHz lock range regardless of supply voltage, as confirmed in Tables 6 and 8 of the MPC9315FA datasheet.

Does the MPC9315FA support spread-spectrum clocking (SSC)?

Yes - the MPC9315FA's fully integrated PLL supports spread-spectrum clocking, as explicitly stated in its Features list. SSC reduces electromagnetic interference (EMI) by modulating the output clock frequency around a center value. While the datasheet does not specify modulation depth or rate, the capability is inherent to the PLL architecture and requires no external components - a key advantage over discrete oscillator-based solutions when designing FCC/CE-compliant telecom equipment using the MPC9315FA.