Skyworks Solutions Inc. SI5338A-B02498-GM

Overview

SI5338A-B02498-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 from 1.8/2.5/3.3 V core supply 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-B02498-GM datasheet, SI5338A-B02498-GM pinout, SI5338A-B02498-GM application, or SI5338A-B02498-GM equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, validated pin functions, PCIe- and Ethernet-specific use cases, and two confirmed alternative parts with documented technical and application differences.

Technical Context

The SI5338A-B02498-GM implements a dual-stage synthesis architecture: a PLL-based Stage 1 (with 1.6 MHz loop bandwidth) locks to one of six input references (crystal, CMOS, SSTL/HSTL, or differential), followed by four independent MultiSynth™ fractional-N dividers in Stage 2. Each output driver supports LVPECL/LVDS/HCSL/CMOS/SSTL/HSTL formats with per-output voltage selection (1.5–3.3 V).

It features pin-controlled or I²C-driven frequency increment/decrement in 1 ppm steps, programmable phase offset (±45 ns, <20 ps resolution), and configurable spread-spectrum on any output (0.5–5.0% spread, 33–63 kHz modulation). Loss-of-lock and loss-of-signal alarms are provided via dedicated INTR pin.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SI5338A-B02498-GM is housed in a 24-lead, 4 × 4 mm QFN package with exposed thermal pad. Pin functions are defined per Skyworks Rev. 1.6 datasheet (pages 33–37) and validated for this variant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SI5338A-B02498-GM, Si5332A-D05889-GM offers higher channel count and lower jitter but demands board space and firmware changes, while ICS853S01AG-01T provides lower BOM cost only in fixed-frequency buffer roles - neither matches the SI5338A-B02498-GM's balance of programmability, PCIe compliance, and compact 24-QFN footprint.

Availability

SI5338A-B02498-GM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for PCIe Gen 4 server motherboards, 10/25 GbE switch designs, and broadcast video timing systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for SI5338A-B02498-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 semiconductor company specializing in analog and mixed-signal connectivity solutions, with leadership in RF, timing, and power management ICs for infrastructure, automotive, and mobile markets.

The Si5338 family was designed as a programmable, low-jitter clock generator platform for high-speed serial interfaces-including PCIe, Ethernet, Fibre Channel, and broadcast video-where frequency flexibility, phase control, and signal integrity are critical.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the SI5338A-B02498-GM in a timing architecture?

The SI5338A-B02498-GM serves as an I²C-programmable quad clock generator that synthesizes four independent, low-jitter output frequencies from a single input reference. Its core function is to replace multiple discrete oscillators or fixed-frequency buffers in systems requiring PCIe, Ethernet, or broadcast video timing-delivering zero-ppm accuracy, sub-ps jitter, and flexible signal formatting without external components.

Does the SI5338A-B02498-GM support PCIe Gen 4 Common Clock mode?

Yes, the SI5338A-B02498-GM is explicitly specified for PCIe Gen 4 Common Clock mode with 0.15–0.45 ps RMS jitter (10 kHz–50 MHz band) when configured per Skyworks AN562 guidelines. It meets the PCI-SIG Base Specification 4.0 rev. 0.5 requirements using its internal PLL with 2–5 MHz loop bandwidth and HCSL 100 MHz outputs.

Can the SI5338A-B02498-GM generate both LVDS and HCSL outputs simultaneously?

Yes, the SI5338A-B02498-GM supports mixed-output formats: each of its four differential output pairs (CLK0–CLK3) can be independently configured for LVDS, HCSL, LVPECL, CML, SSTL, or HSTL. This is enabled by separate VDDOx supplies and register-controlled driver settings-allowing, for example, CLK0A/B as LVDS and CLK1A/B as HCSL on the same SI5338A-B02498-GM device.

What is the minimum input frequency supported by the SI5338A-B02498-GM in PLL bypass mode?

In PLL bypass (clock buffer) mode, the SI5338A-B02498-GM supports input frequencies down to 1 MHz on single-ended inputs (IN3/IN4) and 5 MHz on differential inputs (IN1/IN2, IN5/IN6). However, loss-of-signal detection is only functional above 5 MHz; below that threshold, the INTR pin will not assert LOS status.

How is the SI5338A-B02498-GM programmed, and is external non-volatile memory required?

The SI5338A-B02498-GM is programmed via its I²C/SMBus interface using Skyworks' ClockBuilder Pro software, which generates configuration files and writes them to internal one-time-programmable (OTP) memory. No external EEPROM is required-the device boots autonomously from OTP after power-up, though I²C reprogramming remains possible during operation.