Clock / Synchronization Board
VPX Chassis — Clock / Synchronization
Clock / Synchronization Board
The Clock card distributes the common time reference, PCIe REF_CLK, and phase-coherent synchronization signals to all modules in the VPX system. It is critical for synchronized multi-channel operation in electronic warfare and radar applications.
Serving as a single source within the system, this card can lock to GPS or external standards via external 10 MHz reference and 1PPS input; it supports independent (holdover) operation mode with TCXO/OCXO.
Serving as a single source within the system, this card can lock to GPS or external standards via external 10 MHz reference and 1PPS input; it supports independent (holdover) operation mode with TCXO/OCXO.
- Jitter:Low Jitter
- Distribution:Radial Distribution
- Reference:1PPS / 10 MHz
- Sync:JESD Sysref
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Value / Description |
|---|---|
| Reference Sources | TCXO / OCXO — holdover support |
| External Input | 10 MHz reference + 1PPS (front panel and backplane) |
| Clock Processing | Jitter cleaner + clock distributor (low phase noise) |
| RF Switch | Clock source selection (internal / external) |
| Distribution Topology | Radial — dedicated lines to SBC, Switch, and all payload slots |
| Backplane Signal Path | REF_CLK, AUX_CLK, DAC/JESD SYSREF via P1/P2 |
| Management | IPMC (VITA 46.11), I2C, IPMB, EEPROM |
Technical specifications
Synchronization advantages
Radial low-jitter clock distribution provides critical infrastructure for coherent processing in multi-channel radar and electronic warfare systems.
- TCXO/OCXO holdover support
- JESD SYSREF distribution
- 10 MHz + 1PPS external reference input
- Radial clock topology
Conclusion
Precision time reference
The Clock card guarantees synchronized operation of all modules with a common time reference in the VPX ecosystem.