Microchip Technology ZL30156GGG2

Overview

ZL30156GGG2 from Zarlink Semiconductor Inc. is a dual-channel universal clock-rate translator IC designed for high-precision synchronization in 10G optical transport and Ethernet systems. It features two independent digital PLLs, programmable synthesizers supporting 1 kHz–720 MHz output rates, sub-0.7 ps RMS jitter on precision outputs, four differential LVPECL and four LVCMOS clock outputs, and operates from a single crystal or oscillator source.

For engineers reviewing the ZL30156GGG2 datasheet, ZL30156GGG2 pinout, ZL30156GGG2 application, or ZL30156GGG2 equivalent, this device serves as a critical timing solution for OTN transponders, Synchronous Ethernet line cards, and multi-rate FEC-aware rate translation where phase alignment, hitless reference switching, and ultra-low jitter generation are mandatory.

Technical Context

The ZL30156GGG2 implements a flexible two-stage architecture combining digital PLLs with precision frequency synthesis engines to translate arbitrary input data rates (e.g., OC-192/STM-64/10GBASE-W) to OTU2 and vice versa while maintaining ITU-T G.8251/G.8262 compliance. Each DPLL supports programmable loop filter corner frequencies (14–896 Hz), automatic hitless reference switching, and digital holdover on reference failure.

Its synthesis macro delivers jitter below 0.7 ps RMS for 10G PHY applications using 16× internal multiplication scaling, and its four configurable reference inputs accept either single-ended LVCMOS (≤177.5 MHz) or differential signals (≤720 MHz), with optional 2× prescaling for >400 MHz inputs.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 100-pin CABGA (11 mm × 11 mm, 0.8 mm pitch), Pb-free (Sn/Ag/Cu), rated for –40°C to +85°C operation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar clock-rate translation applications.

Compared with Si5341-B-GM and ICS8430I-01LG, the ZL30156GGG2 uniquely combines dual-channel M/N ratio synthesis, guaranteed <0.7 ps RMS jitter, automatic hitless switching, and 24+ hour digital holdover - making it the only option qualified for OTN transponder and SyncE line card designs requiring full ITU-T G.8251/G.8262 compliance.

Availability

ZL30156GGG2 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for 10G OTN transponders, Synchronous Ethernet line cards, and SONET/SDH multiplexers requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing for carrier infrastructure programs.

Supply support for ZL30156GGG2 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

Zarlink Semiconductor Inc. was a fabless semiconductor company specializing in timing, voice, and optical networking ICs, acquired by Microsemi in 2011 and later integrated into Microchip Technology.

The ZL30156 product line was engineered specifically for carrier-class optical transport timing, targeting OTN, SyncE, and SONET/SDH systems requiring deterministic jitter performance, FEC-aware rate translation, and telecom-grade reliability.

FAQ

What is the maximum differential input frequency supported by ZL30156GGG2?

ZL30156GGG2 supports differential input frequencies up to 720 MHz on its ref0_p/n through ref3_p/n pins. Inputs above 400 MHz require internal 2× prescaling enabled via the ref_config register (address 0x0A). This capability ensures compatibility with high-speed OTU4 and 100G-related reference sources while maintaining DPLL lock stability.

Does ZL30156GGG2 support automatic hitless reference switching between all four inputs?

Yes, ZL30156GGG2 supports automatic hitless reference switching across all four differential or single-ended reference inputs (ref0–ref3). The internal state machine monitors each reference independently using LOS, CFM, SCM, and GST logic, and performs zero-phase-disruption switchover when the active reference fails or degrades beyond configured thresholds - a core requirement for GR-1244-CORE and ITU-T G.781 compliance.

How does ZL30156GGG2 achieve <0.7 ps RMS jitter on its HPDIFF outputs?

ZL30156GGG2 achieves <0.7 ps RMS jitter on hpdiff0_p/n through hpdiff3_p/n outputs through its dedicated ultra-low-jitter synthesis macro, which uses 16× internal multiplication scaling, optimized charge pump design, and external loop filter components (filter1/filter2 pins). Performance is validated per ITU-T G.8251 Annex A test conditions at 10.3125 GHz with proper PCB layout and termination per Figures 5–9.

Can ZL30156GGG2 generate both 156.25 MHz and 312.5 MHz simultaneously from different channels?

Yes, ZL30156GGG2 can generate 156.25 MHz on one channel (e.g., hpoutclk0) and 312.5 MHz on another (e.g., hpoutclk2) simultaneously. Each synthesizer channel (Synthesizer 0 and Synthesizer 1) operates independently with its own Bs, Ks, Ms, Ns parameters, enabling concurrent generation of unrelated frequencies required for multi-protocol line cards supporting both Ethernet and CPRI interfaces.

What is the recommended master clock frequency for ZL30156GGG2, and how is it selected?

The recommended master clock frequency for ZL30156GGG2 is 24.576 MHz, selected at power-on reset via voltage levels on GPIO[1:0]. These pins must be pulled high or low with 1 kΩ resistors before reset or driven for 30 ms post-reset. This frequency optimizes internal PLL settling time and minimizes spurious tones in synthesized outputs, especially critical for 10GBASE-R and OTU2 applications.