New programmable clock generator reduces board space

Renesas Electronics Corporation has released the VersaClock 7 clock generators, a family of configurable clock generators with an internal crystal oscillator for PCIe and networking applications in high-end computing, wired infrastructure and data centre equipment. The generators deliver unmatched flexibility, allowing designers to configure frequencies, I/O levels, and GPIO pin functionality. It sets a new standard in merging low power consumption, cost-efficiency, and small package size.

“Timing needs can vary greatly between different applications and equipment and often change during a product design cycle,” said Zaher Baidas, vice president of the Timing Products Division at Renesas. “VersaClock 7 gives our customers the flexibility to configure multiple design parameters while offering the best value available for their particular performance requirements.”

“High levels of integration and the flexibility of programmability helps manufacturers reduce component counts, saving board space and power,” said Susie Inouye, principal analyst at Databeans in Reno, Nevada. “Additionally, using fewer components reduces the risk of supply-chain issues interrupting production.”

To configure the devices, the company provides the new Renesas IC ToolBox (RICBox) Windows application that allows users to produce configurations and program devices on evaluation boards. RICBox is a newly introduced platform for providing state-of-the-art software to customers to evaluate Renesas products. Customers can use Python drivers or a Windows GUI to create customised configurations and program devices on evaluation boards.

Customers can create optimised configurations for devices by specifying high-level parameters that don’t require expert knowledge of the device. RICBox interfaces seamlessly with Renesas’ innovative Lab on The Cloud platform. Customers can download the configuration they create and work with it locally using RICBox. Alternatively, they can start with the application and upload their configuration to Lab on the Cloud to analyse the performance.