NXP Semiconductors MPC9330AC

Overview

MPC9330AC from Freescale Semiconductor is a 3.3 V, 1:6 LVCMOS PLL-based clock generator designed for low-skew clock distribution in telecom, networking, and computing systems. It delivers up to 120 MHz output frequency, achieves ≤150 ps output-to-output skew within banks, supports internal crystal oscillator or external LVCMOS reference input, and operates across 0°C to +70°C ambient temperature.

For engineers reviewing the MPC9330AC datasheet, MPC9330AC pinout, MPC9330AC application, or MPC9330AC equivalent, key selection criteria include its 32-lead LQFP Pb-free package (Case 873A-03), configurable PLL feedback modes (internal ÷16 or external ÷4/÷8/÷12/÷16/÷24), independent bank-level output dividers (FSELA/B/C), synchronous clock stop control (CLK_STOP0/1), and VCC_PLL analog supply filtering requirements.

Technical Context

The MPC9330AC implements a fully integrated PLL with VCO lock range of 200–480 MHz, selectable via feedback divider (÷4 to ÷24 in external mode, ÷16 in internal mode) and PWR_DN/FSEL pin configuration. Its three independent output banks (QA, QB, QC) support programmable frequency ratios relative to reference input-including 4x, 3x, 2x, 1x, 4/3x, 3/2x, 2/3x, x/2, x/3, x/4-enabling flexible clock tree synthesis.

It features dual reference selection (REF_SEL toggles between XTAL_IN/XTAL_OUT and CCLK), static PLL bypass (PLL_EN), synchronous output disable (CLK_STOP0/1), and tristate control (OE/MR). All outputs are LVCMOS-compliant, drive terminated 50 Ω transmission lines, and support fanout of up to 12 lines via series or parallel termination schemes.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 32-lead LQFP (Pb-free), 7 mm × 7 mm body, 0.8 mm pitch, Case 873A-03.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with IDT5V9885BPGI and ICS843002AGILF, the MPC9330AC uniquely combines on-chip crystal oscillator support, synchronous logic-low clock stop, and independent bank-level divider control in a Pb-free LQFP package-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained telecom and computing clock trees requiring design simplicity and low skew.

Availability

MPC9330AC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for telecom infrastructure, network switch timing, and server baseboard management applications requiring stable component supply and long-term industrial availability.

Supply support for MPC9330AC 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 global leader in embedded processing and analog solutions, delivering high-performance silicon for automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The MPC9330AC belongs to Freescale's Advanced Clock Drivers Devices product line, engineered specifically for low-skew, multi-output clock distribution in mid-to-high-performance telecom and computing platforms where PLL flexibility and board-level integration are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum output frequency supported by the MPC9330AC?

The MPC9330AC supports a maximum output frequency of 120 MHz when configured in PLL-locked mode with appropriate feedback and divider settings. This occurs with VCO running at 480 MHz and ÷4 post-PLL division, using either internal crystal (10–25 MHz range) or external CCLK reference. Output frequencies above 120 MHz are not supported per datasheet AC characteristics.

Does the MPC9330AC require external loop filter components?

No, the MPC9330AC requires no external loop filter components. Its PLL is fully integrated with internal charge pump and VCO. However, an external RC filter (10–15 Ω resistor + 22 µF capacitor) is strongly recommended on the VCC_PLL supply pin to suppress noise in the 100 kHz–20 MHz band and minimize I/O phase jitter, as specified in the Applications Information section.

How does the MPC9330AC achieve zero-delay clock distribution?

The MPC9330AC achieves zero-delay operation in external feedback mode when CCLK serves as the reference clock and one output (e.g., QA0) is routed back to FB_IN. With FB_SEL = 1 and proper divider selection, the PLL locks such that the propagation delay from CCLK to the feedback input matches the internal VCO-to-output path, eliminating net delay between reference and output clocks.

Can the MPC9330AC drive multiple PCB traces simultaneously?

Yes, the MPC9330AC can drive up to two 50 Ω series-terminated transmission lines per output, effectively doubling fanout to 12 lines. Each output has <20 Ω impedance and sufficient drive strength to launch clean edges on incident waveforms. Dual-line loading increases skew by only ~43 ps versus single-line, preserving tight timing margins in point-to-point clock networks.

What happens to PLL lock when OE/MR is asserted low in external feedback mode?

When OE/MR is asserted low in external feedback mode, all outputs enter high-impedance state and the PLL loses lock due to interruption of the feedback path at FB_IN. The VCO reverts to its lowest frequency. Asserting OE/MR high restores the feedback loop, allowing the PLL to reacquire lock-requiring up to 10 ms (tLOCK) before stable operation resumes. Internal feedback mode retains lock during OE/MR assertion.