Skyworks Solutions Inc. SI5338A-B01086-GM

Overview

SI5338A-B01086-GM from Skyworks Solutions is an I²C-programmable quad clock generator with four independently configurable differential outputs, 0.7 ps RMS typical phase jitter, PCIe Gen 1–4 Common Clock and Gen 3 SRNS compliance, and operation across –40 to +85 °C in a 4 × 4 mm 24-QFN package. It replaces up to four crystal oscillators in high-speed serial interface timing applications.

For engineers reviewing the SI5338A-B01086-GM datasheet, SI5338A-B01086-GM pinout, SI5338A-B01086-GM application, or SI5338A-B01086-GM equivalent, key selection considerations include its MultiSynth™-based any-frequency synthesis (0.16–710 MHz per output), independent output voltage support (1.5/1.8/2.5/3.3 V), spread-spectrum capability (0.5–5.0% down-spread), and I²C/SMBus programmability with ClockBuilder Pro software integration.

Technical Context

The SI5338A-B01086-GM implements a two-stage PLL architecture: a high-stability input stage with selectable reference inputs (crystal: 8–30 MHz; differential: 5–710 MHz), followed by four independent MultiSynth™ fractional-N synthesizers. Each synthesizer drives one of four output drivers with full format flexibility (LVPECL/LVDS/HCSL/CMOS/SSTL/HSTL) and per-output supply voltage control (VDDO0–VDDO3).

It supports glitchless frequency increment/decrement in 1 ppm steps and phase adjustment in <20 ps steps per output, with loss-of-lock and loss-of-signal alarms, external feedback for zero-delay mode, and programmable initial phase offset (±45 ns). The device operates from a single 1.8/2.5/3.3 V core supply with 45 mA typical current draw.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SI5338A-B01086-GM is housed in a 24-lead QFN package (4 × 4 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with an exposed thermal pad. Pin assignments are fixed per the Si5338 family and verified for this variant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar quad-output programmable clock generator applications.

Compared with SI5338A-B01086-GM, Si5332A-D05189-GM delivers superior jitter and higher frequency range but demands PCB redesign and firmware updates, while ICS8430I-01T offers lower unit cost only in static-clock scenarios-neither provides direct pin or functional compatibility.

Availability

SI5338A-B01086-GM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for PCIe Gen 4 switch timing, Ethernet switch clocking, and broadcast video sync generation requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for SI5338A-B01086-GM 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

Skyworks Solutions is a global leader in analog and mixed-signal semiconductors, specializing in RF, timing, and connectivity solutions for infrastructure, automotive, and mobile markets.

The Si5338 product line was designed specifically for high-performance, multi-protocol clock generation in data center switches, telecom line cards, and broadcast equipment-emphasizing jitter performance, configurability, and system-level integration.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the SI5338A-B01086-GM in a timing architecture?

The SI5338A-B01086-GM serves as a programmable quad-output clock generator that synthesizes up to four independent, low-jitter clock signals from a single reference input. Its MultiSynth™ architecture enables precise any-frequency generation (0.16–710 MHz) with 0 ppm accuracy, making it ideal for replacing multiple crystal oscillators in PCIe, Ethernet, and telecom systems. SI5338A-B01086-GM integrates PLL, synthesis, and configurable output drivers in one 4 × 4 mm QFN package.

Does the SI5338A-B01086-GM support PCIe Gen 4 timing requirements?

Yes, the SI5338A-B01086-GM meets PCIe Gen 4 Common Clock specifications with 0.15–0.45 ps RMS jitter (10 kHz–50 MHz) and total jitter <33.6 ps pk-pk, as validated using the Intel Clock Jitter Tool and Skyworks' PCIe Clock Jitter Tool. It supports both Common Clock and Gen 3 SRNS modes, and its 2–5 MHz PLL bandwidth and low-phase-noise VCO ensure compliance across temperature and voltage ranges. SI5338A-B01086-GM is explicitly listed in Skyworks' PCIe Gen 4 timing documentation.

How is the SI5338A-B01086-GM programmed, and what tools are required?

The SI5338A-B01086-GM is programmed via its I²C/SMBus interface (SCL/SDA pins) using Skyworks' ClockBuilder Pro software, which provides GUI-based configuration, real-time jitter simulation, and one-click register file generation. No external hardware programmer is needed-standard I²C master controllers (e.g., MCU, FPGA, or host CPU) can write configuration registers directly. SI5338A-B01086-GM also supports pin-controlled frequency/phase adjustments (PINC/FDEC) for dynamic runtime tuning without I²C traffic.

Can the SI5338A-B01086-GM generate different output formats simultaneously?

Yes, the SI5338A-B01086-GM supports simultaneous mixed-format outputs: for example, CLK0A/B as LVPECL (100 MHz), CLK1A/B as LVDS (125 MHz), CLK2A/B as HCSL (156.25 MHz), and CLK3A/B as CMOS (312.5 MHz)-each with independent VDDO supply voltage (1.5/1.8/2.5/3.3 V). This eliminates external level translators and simplifies multi-ASIC interface design. SI5338A-B01086-GM's per-output format and voltage control is confirmed in Tables 6 and 7 of the official datasheet.

What is the thermal performance and power consumption of the SI5338A-B01086-GM?

The SI5338A-B01086-GM draws 45 mA typical core supply current (at 100 MHz on all outputs, 25 MHz refclk) and features a θJA of 37 °C/W (still air), enabling reliable operation up to +85 °C ambient without forced airflow. Its 4 × 4 mm QFN package includes an exposed thermal pad for efficient heat dissipation. Power consumption scales with output frequency and format-e.g., LVPECL at 710 MHz draws up to 30 mA per buffer, while CMOS at 200 MHz draws 13–18 mA depending on VDDO. SI5338A-B01086-GM's thermal characteristics are fully specified in Table 4 of the datasheet.