Microchip Technologies has introduced a new high-performance Miniature Atomic Clock (MAC) called MAC-SA5X that can produce a stable time and frequency reference to maintain a high degree of synchronization with a reference clock, such as a GNSS-derived signal. Further, the new device can deliver a wider thermal range and rapid warm-up time which improves the critical performance and also provides other enhancements over previously available technology. Because of its size and power, MAC-SA5X can support both military and commercial applications.
The MAC-SA5X combines low monthly drift rate, stability during temperature changes, and short-term stability to maintain precise frequency and timing that is required during extended periods of holdover during GNSS outages or for applications where large rack-mount clocks are not possible. The MAC-SA5X was designed to quickly achieve atomic stability and performance by taking less time to lock, and it allows the developers to avoid the need for extra circuitry by integrating a one pulse per second (1PPS) input pin for fast frequency calibration, saving time and development cost.
The MAC-SA5X operates to the following additional specifications: <5.0E-11 frequency stability over operating temperature; <5.0E-11 per month aging rate; 6.3-watt power consumption; 47 cc in volume. The MAC-SA5X provides backward compatibility with its predecessor MAC-SA.3Xm family and comes in an ovenized crystal oscillator (OCXO)-sized package of 50.8 mm x 50.8 mm.
Microchip’s new MAC-SA5X atomic clock is available now for pre-sampling. In February 2020, the MAC-SA5X will be available for deliveries. For more information about MAC-SA5X, visit the official website of Microchip Technologies, Inc.
