Frequency synthesizer with VCO deliver low phase noise

Texas Instruments has introduced a wideband frequency synthesizer with integrated voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) that delivers the industry’s lowest phase noise.

Key specification and features:
Phase detector frequency of 200 MHz and ultra-low PLL normalized phase noise of -229 dBc/Hz provides a precision local oscillator to an RF front end for better receiver sensitivity.
Integrated VCOs allow the device to output frequencies from 50 MHz to 3760 MHz. The LMX2581 also gives designers the option to bypass its internal multi-core VCO in favor of an external VCO.
Delta-sigma PLLatinum PLL engine with 200-MHz phase detector frequency boosts spurious performance.
Integrates a delta-sigma fractional-N PLL; a multi-core VCO with tank circuit; optional frequency divider; two differential RF output buffers that can deliver 10 dBm single-ended on each side; and several low-noise, high precision low dropout regulators (LDOs).

The LMX2581 is available now in a 32-pin, 5-mm x 5-mm QFN package for a suggested retail price of US$7.00 in 1,000-unit quantities.