Skyworks Solutions Inc. SI5338A-B05144-GM

Overview

SI5338A-B05144-GM from Skyworks Solutions is an I²C-programmable quad clock generator with four independently configurable differential or single-ended outputs, 0.7 ps RMS typical phase jitter, PCIe Gen 1–4 Common Clock and Gen 3 SRNS compliance, and MultiSynth™ frequency synthesis supporting 0.16–710 MHz output ranges across LVPECL/LVDS/HCSL/CMOS/SSTL/HSTL formats. It replaces up to four crystal oscillators in Ethernet switch/router and FPGA clocking systems.

For engineers reviewing the SI5338A-B05144-GM datasheet, SI5338A-B05144-GM pinout, SI5338A-B05144-GM application, or SI5338A-B05144-GM equivalent, key selection considerations include its 24-QFN package, independent per-output voltage (1.5/1.8/2.5/3.3 V), ±20 ps phase step resolution, 1 ppm frequency increment/decrement capability, and support for external crystal (8–30 MHz), CMOS (5–200 MHz), or differential (5–710 MHz) reference inputs.

Technical Context

The SI5338A-B05144-GM implements a two-stage PLL architecture: a high-stability reference PLL (Stage 1) locks to one of six input sources, followed by four independent MultiSynth™ fractional-N synthesizers (Stage 2) generating each output with integer or fractional division. Each output path includes programmable slew rate control, spread-spectrum modulation (0.5–5.0% spread, 33–63 kHz), and loss-of-lock/loss-of-signal alarms.

Its I²C/SMBus interface enables full register configuration including per-output format, voltage, termination, phase offset (±45 ns), and frequency tuning via PINC/FDEC pins or software. The device operates from a single 1.8/2.5/3.3 V core supply with 45 mA typical current draw and supports –40 to +85 °C industrial temperature range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SI5338A-B05144-GM uses a 24-lead QFN package (4 × 4 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad. Pin 1 is top-left corner (IN1), and pin 24 is bottom-right (GND). The package supports reflow soldering per JEDEC J-STD-020 (peak 260 °C).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with Si5338A-B05145-GM, SI5338A-B05144-GM offers identical silicon performance but distinct factory NVM settings; versus LMK04832ISQE/NOPB, SI5338A-B05144-GM provides lower power, smaller footprint, and PCIe-specific compliance at the expense of JESD204B features and output count.

Availability

SI5338A-B05144-GM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for Ethernet switch/router, PCIe Gen 1–4 timing, and broadcast video/audio timing applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for SI5338A-B05144-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 for wireless, broadband, automotive, and industrial markets.

The Si5338 product line delivers programmable, low-jitter clock generation for high-speed digital systems, targeting applications where precision timing, flexibility, and space-constrained packaging are critical - especially in networking, computing, and communications infrastructure.

FAQ

What reference clock inputs does the SI5338A-B05144-GM support?

The SI5338A-B05144-GM supports six reference inputs: differential (IN1/IN2, IN5/IN6) from 5–710 MHz, single-ended CMOS (IN3/IN4) from 5–200 MHz, SSTL/HSTL (IN3/IN4) from 5–350 MHz, and external crystal (8–30 MHz) on IN1/IN2. All inputs are selectable via I²C configuration, and the device automatically detects valid clock presence using loss-of-signal circuitry. SI5338A-B05144-GM requires no external components for crystal drive beyond standard load capacitors.

Does the SI5338A-B05144-GM meet PCIe Gen 4 timing specifications?

Yes, the SI5338A-B05144-GM meets PCIe Gen 4 Common Clock jitter requirements with 0.15–0.45 ps RMS (10 kHz–50 MHz) when configured per Skyworks AN562 guidelines. It achieves this using a 2–4 MHz PLL bandwidth and CDR=10 MHz filter setting. SI5338A-B05144-GM also complies with PCIe Gen 3 SRNS mode (0.11–0.32 ps RMS) and Gen 1/2/3 Common Clock specs, verified using the Skyworks PCIe Clock Jitter Tool.

How many output formats can the SI5338A-B05144-GM generate simultaneously?

The SI5338A-B05144-GM supports simultaneous generation of up to four differential outputs (LVPECL/LVDS/HCSL/CML) or eight single-ended outputs (CMOS/SSTL/HSTL), or any combination thereof - e.g., two LVDS pairs + two CMOS clocks. Each output driver is independently configurable for format, voltage (1.5/1.8/2.5/3.3 V), termination, and slew rate. SI5338A-B05144-GM does not require external level-shifting components for mixed-format clock trees.

Can the SI5338A-B05144-GM operate in clock buffer (PLL bypass) mode?

Yes, the SI5338A-B05144-GM supports clock buffer mode where the input clock passes directly to selected outputs with minimal additive jitter (0.165 ps RMS, 12 kHz–20 MHz). In this mode, the PLL is disabled, propagation delay is 2.5–4 ns, and loss-of-signal detection remains functional above 5 MHz. SI5338A-B05144-GM retains full I²C configurability for output format, voltage, and enable control even in bypass mode.

What software tools are available to configure the SI5338A-B05144-GM?

Skyworks ClockBuilder Pro is the official GUI-based configuration tool for SI5338A-B05144-GM, enabling point-and-click setup of input references, output frequencies, formats, voltages, spread spectrum, and phase offsets. It generates I²C register maps and supports NVM programming via USB adapter. SI5338A-B05144-GM configuration files can be exported for integration into production programming workflows or embedded host initialization sequences.