Skyworks Solutions Inc. SI5338Q-B04152-GM

Overview

SI5338Q-B04152-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 operation across –40 to +85 °C in a 4 × 4 mm 24-QFN package. It replaces up to four crystal oscillators in FPGA clocking, Ethernet switch timing, and PCIe root complex applications.

For engineers reviewing the SI5338Q-B04152-GM datasheet, SI5338Q-B04152-GM pinout, SI5338Q-B04152-GM application, or SI5338Q-B04152-GM equivalent, key selection criteria include output format flexibility (LVPECL/LVDS/HCSL/CMOS/SSTL/HSTL), independent per-output voltage (1.5/1.8/2.5/3.3 V), any-frequency synthesis capability (0.16–710 MHz), and PCIe Gen 4 jitter compliance (0.15–0.45 ps RMS).

Technical Context

The SI5338Q-B04152-GM implements a two-stage PLL architecture: a high-stability reference stage followed by four independent MultiSynth™ fractional-N synthesizers, each driving one output. Its input supports eight reference sources-differential (5–710 MHz), CMOS (5–200 MHz), SSTL/HSTL (5–350 MHz), or 8–30 MHz crystal-enabling flexible system clock tree design.

Each output driver supports programmable format, voltage, spread-spectrum modulation (0.5–5.0% spread, 33–63 kHz rate), phase offset (±45 ns, <20 ps step), and frequency increment/decrement (1 ppm step, glitchless). The device operates from a single 1.8/2.5/3.3 V core supply with 45 mA typical current draw and includes loss-of-lock and loss-of-signal alarms.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SI5338Q-B04152-GM is housed in a 24-lead, 4 × 4 mm QFN package with exposed thermal pad. Pin assignments are fixed per Skyworks Si5338 family layout and validated for signal integrity in high-speed clock distribution.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with Si5332A-D06152-GM and ICS853S01AGI-01LFT, the SI5338Q-B04152-GM uniquely balances programmability, jitter performance, and compact 24-QFN packaging-making it optimal for space-constrained PCIe and Ethernet designs requiring field-reconfigurable timing.

Availability

SI5338Q-B04152-GM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for Ethernet switch/router, PCIe Gen 1–4 add-in cards, and broadcast video equipment requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for SI5338Q-B04152-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 semiconductors, specializing in RF, mobile, infrastructure, and timing solutions with over 30 years of RF and clocking innovation.

The Si5338 product line was designed for high-performance, multi-protocol timing in datacenter, telecom, and broadcast systems-delivering programmable any-frequency synthesis with sub-ps jitter in minimal footprint.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the SI5338Q-B04152-GM in a system design?

The SI5338Q-B04152-GM serves as a programmable quad clock generator that synthesizes up to four independent, low-jitter output frequencies from a single reference input. It replaces multiple crystal oscillators or fixed-frequency clock sources, enabling flexible clock tree architecture in PCIe, Ethernet, and FPGA-based systems. Its MultiSynth™ technology ensures true zero-ppm accuracy on all outputs, and its 24-QFN package supports high-density PCB layouts.

Does the SI5338Q-B04152-GM support PCIe Gen 4 timing requirements?

Yes, the SI5338Q-B04152-GM is explicitly validated for PCIe Gen 4 Common Clock compliance, delivering 0.15–0.45 ps RMS jitter at 100 MHz HCSL output under specified conditions. It meets the PCI-SIG Gen 4 SRNS (Separate Reference No Spread) specification when configured with appropriate PLL bandwidth (2–5 MHz) and CDR settings. This makes SI5338Q-B04152-GM suitable for root complexes, switches, and endpoints in Gen 4 systems.

Can the SI5338Q-B04152-GM generate different output formats simultaneously?

Yes, the SI5338Q-B04152-GM supports simultaneous mixed-format outputs: for example, LVDS on CLK0, HCSL on CLK1, CMOS on CLK2, and SSTL on CLK3-all independently configured. Each output driver accepts its own VDDO supply (1.4–3.63 V) and format selection, enabling direct interfacing with heterogeneous logic families (e.g., 1.8 V FPGA banks, 3.3 V microcontrollers, and 1.5 V memory interfaces) without external level shifters.

How is the SI5338Q-B04152-GM programmed and configured?

The SI5338Q-B04152-GM is programmed via its I²C/SMBus-compatible serial interface (SCL/SDA pins) using Skyworks' ClockBuilder Pro software. This GUI tool enables full register configuration-including input selection, MultiSynth dividers, output format/voltage, spread-spectrum parameters, and phase offsets-and generates custom configuration files. Configuration can be stored in on-chip OTP memory for autonomous startup, eliminating the need for external microcontrollers or firmware.

What thermal and power considerations apply to the SI5338Q-B04152-GM?

The SI5338Q-B04152-GM has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (θJA) of 37 °C/W and requires proper PCB thermal management via the exposed pad. Core supply current is 45 mA typical at 100 MHz output with 25 MHz reference; output buffer current varies by format and frequency (e.g., 30 mA max for LVPECL at 710 MHz). Designers must ensure adequate copper pour under the thermal pad and maintain VDD/VDDO decoupling per Skyworks layout guidelines to sustain –40 to +85 °C operation.