Diodes Incorporated PI6LC48L0201AZHIE

Overview

PI6LC48L0201AZHIE from Pericom is a 2-output LVDS clock synthesizer optimized for Ethernet reference clock generation, featuring ultra-low phase jitter (0.3ps RMS typ. @156.25MHz), selectable 62.5/125/156.25MHz outputs via N_SEL pins, and dual supply support (2.5V or 3.3V) for industrial networking systems.

For engineers reviewing the PI6LC48L0201AZHIE datasheet, PI6LC48L0201AZHIE pinout, PI6LC48L0201AZHIE application, or PI6LC48L0201AZHIE equivalent, key selection criteria include LVDS output skew (≤50ps), crystal vs. LVCMOS input flexibility, PLL bypass capability, and industrial-grade thermal performance (–40°C to +85°C).

Technical Context

The device implements a proprietary low-phase-noise PLL architecture with separate analog (VDDA) and output (VDDO) power domains to isolate switching noise and preserve jitter integrity. It supports both fundamental-mode 25MHz crystal (18pF load) and single-ended LVCMOS/LVTTL reference inputs via IN_SEL control.

Frequency selection is determined by two binary N_SEL pins, enabling three standard Ethernet frequencies without external programming. The PLL can be bypassed using PLL_ByPass to pass through the reference clock directly, supporting system-level clock redundancy and test modes.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 20-pin TQFN (ZH), 3.0mm × 3.0mm, 0.4mm pitch, exposed thermal pad (EPAD) connected to GND.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with Si5332A-D-GM and ICS8430I-01T, the PI6LC48L0201AZHIE uniquely balances hardware simplicity (pin-strapped frequency, no I²C), crystal integration, and PLL bypass - making it optimal for fixed-function Ethernet PHY timing where reliability and zero-config startup are mandatory.

Availability

PI6LC48L0201AZHIE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for 10GBASE-T switches, industrial gateways, and optical line cards requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and lead-free manufacturing compliance.

Supply support for PI6LC48L0201AZHIE 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

Pericom Semiconductor (acquired by Diodes Incorporated in 2016) specialized in high-performance clock, interface, and signal-integrity solutions for networking, computing, and communications markets.

The HiFlex family - including PI6LC48L0201AZHIE - was engineered specifically for low-jitter, multi-output Ethernet clock synthesis with minimal external components and robust industrial operation.

FAQ

What crystal specifications are required for optimal 156.25MHz output performance?

The PI6LC48L0201AZHIE is characterized for 25MHz fundamental-mode parallel-resonant crystals with 18pF load capacitance, <50Ω ESR, and ±20ppm stability. Pericom recommends FL2500047 (3.2×2.5mm, CL=18pF) or FY2500091 (5×3.2mm, CL=18pF). Deviations increase ppm error and degrade phase jitter beyond 0.5ps max.

Can the device operate with only a 125MHz LVCMOS reference input and no crystal?

Yes. With IN_SEL = '1', the device accepts a single-ended LVCMOS/LVTTL reference on Ref_IN. The PLL remains active unless PLL_ByPass = '1'. For 125MHz output, set N_SEL[1:0] = '01'. Input amplitude should be reduced to half-swing (1.25V for 2.5V supply) to minimize rail coupling and maintain jitter performance.

How is thermal performance managed in the 20-pin TQFN package?

The ZH TQFN package features an exposed thermal pad (EPAD) tied to GND, achieving θ_JA = 19.8°C/W and θ_JC = 8.1°C/W. Optimal thermal design requires soldering EPAD to a minimum 100mm² copper pour with ≥4 thermal vias to inner ground planes, plus individual 0.1µF bypass caps on all VDD/VDDA/VDDO pins per datasheet layout guidelines.

What happens to LVDS outputs during M_reset assertion?

When M_reset = '1', CLK0 and CLK1 are forced low while CLK0# and CLK1# are forced high - producing defined LVDS idle states (differential voltage ≈ –454mV) that prevent false triggering in downstream PHY receivers. Outputs return to normal operation within one reference clock cycle after M_reset returns low.