IDT introduces piezoelectric MEMS oscillators for high-performance applications

     Integrated Device Technology has announced the launch of the world's first CrystalFree piezoelectric MEMS (pMEMS) LVDS/LVPECL oscillator for high-performance communications, consumer, cloud and industrial applications. IDT's new oscillator operates in a compact, industry-standard package with phase jitter well below 1 picosecond, making it an ideal alternative to conventional six-pin crystal oscillators (XOs).

     IDT's 4M Series high-performance LVDS/LVPECL oscillators utilize IDT's patented CrystalFree pMEMS resonator technology, allowing IDT to quickly program the required output frequencies at the factory without having to fine-tune expensive crystals. In addition, because the intrinsic resonant frequency of pMEMS is much higher than that of quartz crystals, 4M oscillators are able to achieve higher frequencies at a lower cost without losing critical performance. The 4M series is the first product in IDT's broad portfolio of MEMS-based devices and will provide customers with convenient, accurate and low-jitter timing references.

     Fred Zust, vice president and general manager of Timing & Synchronization at IDT, said, "As a leader in timing, our customers have long expected IDT's pMEMS technology to extend to high-performance applications such as communications, an important segment of the $4 billion frequency control market. IDT's patented pMEMS resonator technology combines the strong electromechanical coupling of piezoelectric materials with the stability and low damping of monocrystalline silicon, allowing us to achieve a convenient and cost-effective replacement of XO with unmatched performance and reliability. These products complement our award-winning solid-state oscillators and provide a complete portfolio of frequency control products to replace quartz devices in a growing market segment."

     IDT's 4M oscillators operate with a frequency accuracy of ±50 ppm over a wide industrial temperature range of -40°C to 85°C. The device supports low-voltage differential signaling (LVDS) and low-voltage positive emitter Coupled logic (LVPECL) at frequencies up to 625 MHz to meet the stringent requirements of most communications, networking, and high-performance computing applications. In addition to the 7.0 x 5.0 mm (7050) size, IDT's pMEMS oscillator is also available in a 5.0 x 3.2 mm (5032) small standard plastic package, which saves costs and minimizes package size in high-density applications. They are designed to be compatible with traditional XO pins, making them an ideal upgrade alternative solution.