Skyworks Solutions Inc. SI5338Q-B04172-GM

Overview

SI5338Q-B04172-GM from Skyworks Solutions is a quad-output, I²C-programmable clock generator implementing MultiSynth™ frequency synthesis. It delivers four independent, any-frequency outputs (0.16–710 MHz) with 0.7 ps RMS typical phase jitter, PCIe Gen 1–4 Common Clock and Gen 3 SRNS compliance, and support for LVPECL/LVDS/HCSL/CMOS/SSTL/HSTL signal formats across 1.5–3.3 V output supplies. It replaces up to four crystal oscillators in high-speed serial interface timing applications.

For engineers reviewing the SI5338Q-B04172-GM datasheet, SI5338Q-B04172-GM pinout, SI5338Q-B04172-GM application, or SI5338Q-B04172-GM equivalent, key selection considerations include differential input frequency range (5–710 MHz), per-output voltage configurability, independent phase/frequency increment/decrement control (<20 ps / 1 ppm steps), spread-spectrum capability (0.5–5.0% at 33–63 kHz), and 24-QFN package compatibility with PCIe, Ethernet, and FPGA clocking layouts.

Technical Context

The SI5338Q-B04172-GM integrates a two-stage PLL architecture: a reference-stage PLL locks to an external crystal (8–30 MHz) or clock input (5–710 MHz), followed by four independent MultiSynth™ fractional-N synthesis blocks - each driving one of four configurable output drivers. Each MultiSynth supports integer or fractional mode operation with <1 ppb frequency resolution and programmable initial phase offset (±45 ns).

Output stage flexibility includes per-driver supply voltage selection (1.5/1.8/2.5/3.3 V), format selection (LVPECL, LVDS, HCSL, CMOS, SSTL, HSTL), and independent enable/disable, spread-spectrum, and phase/frequency adjustment controls. Loss-of-lock and loss-of-signal monitoring are implemented via dedicated status registers and the INTR pin.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SI5338Q-B04172-GM is housed in a 24-lead, 4 × 4 mm QFN package with exposed thermal pad. Pin assignments follow Skyworks' standard Si5338 pinout: inputs (IN1–IN6), outputs (CLK0A/B through CLK3A/B), power (VDD, VDDO0–VDDO3), control (SCL, SDA, INTR), and ground (GND, RSVD_GND).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with Si5332A-D06199-GM, SI5338Q-B04172-GM offers broader input flexibility (crystal or external clock) and simpler configuration for moderate-jitter applications; versus ICS853S02IAGLF, it provides full programmability and four independent outputs at higher design complexity cost.

Availability

SI5338Q-B04172-GM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for PCIe Gen 4 timing, 10 GbE switch clocking, and FPGA-based broadcast video systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for SI5338Q-B04172-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 was designed to replace multiple fixed-frequency oscillators with a single, software-configurable, low-jitter clock generator for high-speed serial interface timing in datacenter, telecom, and broadcast equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum differential input frequency supported by the SI5338Q-B04172-GM?

The SI5338Q-B04172-GM supports differential input frequencies up to 710 MHz on pins IN1/IN2 and IN5/IN6. This capability enables direct use with high-speed SerDes reference clocks and eliminates need for external frequency dividers in applications such as 100G Ethernet and PCIe Gen 4. The device maintains <0.7 ps RMS jitter performance even at these frequencies when using low-noise differential sources.

Does the SI5338Q-B04172-GM support PCIe Gen 4 Common Clock compliance?

Yes, the SI5338Q-B04172-GM meets PCIe Gen 4 Common Clock jitter specifications with ≤0.45 ps RMS (12 kHz–20 MHz) when configured per Skyworks AN562 guidelines. Its MultiSynth™ architecture, optimized loop bandwidth (2–5 MHz), and low-noise VCO deliver the required jitter margin for Gen 4 root complex and endpoint timing. SI5338Q-B04172-GM validation reports are available upon request from Aetrix Electronics.

Can the SI5338Q-B04172-GM generate four different output frequencies simultaneously?

Yes, the SI5338Q-B04172-GM synthesizes four independent output frequencies simultaneously - each configurable from 0.16 MHz to 710 MHz with zero-ppm accuracy. Outputs may differ in format (e.g., CLK0A/B = LVDS, CLK1A/B = HCSL, CLK2A/B = CMOS, CLK3A/B = SSTL) and supply voltage (1.5/1.8/2.5/3.3 V). This capability is enabled by four dedicated MultiSynth™ blocks within the SI5338Q-B04172-GM die.

What programming interface does the SI5338Q-B04172-GM use, and is external hardware required?

The SI5338Q-B04172-GM uses an I²C/SMBus-compatible serial interface (SCL/SDA pins) for configuration. No external programmer is required: ClockBuilder Pro software from Skyworks - downloadable free at skyworksinc.com - generates register maps and .hex files that can be loaded via standard microcontroller I²C firmware or evaluation board GUI. SI5338Q-B04172-GM supports both pin-controlled and I²C-based frequency/phase updates.

Is the SI5338Q-B04172-GM pin-compatible with other Si5338 variants?

Yes, all Si5338 variants - including SI5338Q-B04172-GM - share identical 24-QFN pinouts and footprint. Differences between variants (e.g., Si5338A, Si5338B, Si5338Q) relate solely to factory-programmed NVM contents and default configurations; electrical pin behavior, timing, and register mapping remain consistent across the family. This allows drop-in replacement during design iteration or qualification.