Microchip launches next-generation low-noise chip-scale atomic clock SA65-LN

With a height of less than ½ inch, it provides mixing functionality for battery-powered devices.

In aerospace and defence applications with stringent size, weight and power (SWaP) constraints, developers require ultra-clean timing devices. Chip-scale atomic clocks (CSACs) serve as critical reference points for these systems, delivering the necessary precision and stability where traditional atomic clocks prove too bulky or power-hungry, and where other satellite references may be compromised. Microchip Technology Inc. today announced the launch of its second-generation low-noise chip-scale atomic clock (LN-CSAC), model SA65-LN. Featuring a reduced profile height and extended operating temperature range, this device delivers low phase noise and atomic-clock stability under demanding conditions.

Microchip has independently developed vacuum microcrystalline oscillator (EMXO) technology and integrated it into the CSAC, enabling the SA65-LN model to achieve a highly reduced form factor of less than ½ inch while maintaining power consumption at < 295 mW. Boasting compact dimensions, low power consumption and high precision, this new design is ideally suited for aerospace and defence mission-critical applications such as mobile radars, detachable radios, and detachable improvised explosive device jamming systems, as well as autonomous sensor networks and unmanned vehicle applications. The new LN-CSAC features an extended operating temperature range (-40°C to +80°C), maintaining frequency and phase stability under extreme conditions to enhance reliability.

Randy Brudzinski, Vice President of Microchip's Frequency and Time Systems Business Unit, stated: ‘Our next-generation LN-CSAC represents a significant advancement in frequency technology, delivering exceptional stability and precision within an extremely compact form factor. This device enables customers to achieve outstanding signal clarity and atomic-level accuracy while simultaneously reducing design complexity and power consumption.’

The LN-CSAC combines the advantages of crystal oscillators and atomic clocks within a single compact device. The EMXO exhibits low phase noise of < -120 dBc/Hz at 10 Hz and ADEV stability of < 1E-11 over a one-second average time. The atomic clock exhibits initial accuracy of ±0.5 ppb, low frequency drift performance < 0.9 ppb/month, and maximum temperature-induced error < ±0.3 ppb. Compared to designs employing two oscillators, the LN-CSAC saves PCB space, design time, and total power consumption.

The LN-CSAC's crystal signal purity and low phase noise ensure high-quality signal integrity, which is critical for mixing. Atomic-level accuracy permits longer calibration intervals, contributing to extended mission durations and reduced maintenance requirements.

Microchip's aerospace and defence products are engineered to meet the stringent demands of these markets, delivering high reliability, precision, and durability. The company's solutions encompass microcontrollers (MCUs), microprocessors (MPUs), FPGAs, power management, memory, security, and timing devices, ensuring optimal performance in mission-critical applications such as avionics, radar systems, and secure communications. For further information, visit Microchip's Aerospace and Defence Solutions webpage.

Development Tools

The LN-CSAC SA65 is supported by Microchip's graphical user interface (GUI) Clockstudio™ software tool, enabling developers to switch between clock functions and plot operating parameters. Additionally, an LN-CSAC development kit is available.