Diodes has introduced the PI6CG33A06, a six-output PCIe 7.0 clock generator designed to meet the PCI Express 7.0 specification while remaining compliant with earlier PCIe generations. The device targets servers, networking equipment, high-performance computing systems, and data center platforms used for next-generation AI infrastructure.
The PI6CG33A06 generates 25 MHz and 100 MHz reference clocks and is specified at less than 30 fs RMS jitter. Diodes positions that number against the PCIe 7.0 maximum requirement of 67 fs, and also compares it to the 80 fs level defined by Intel’s CK440Q specification. For data center board designers, lower reference-clock jitter is one more way to buy signal-integrity margin as link rates and channel complexity rise.
Diodes ties the part to 128.0 GT/s PCIe links, calling out the need for a stable reference clock at those speeds for performance and reliability in data center systems. That’s a practical pain point as PCIe timing budgets tighten: any extra margin in the clock tree can make bring-up and validation less punishing, especially across long PCB traces and multiple connectors.
The clock generator uses Diodes’ proprietary low-power, high-speed current-steering logic (LP-HCSL) with integrated termination. Diodes claims this cuts clock-related power consumption by at least 50% versus traditional HCSL solutions and reduces thermal footprint in high-density AI server racks. The integrated approach also eliminates the need for up to 24 external resistors, which can reduce BOM cost and simplify PCB layout.
Each of the six outputs includes an individual output enable (OE) pin. The device supports Intel CK440Q-Lite specifications and is intended for use in existing server clock architectures, which can help teams reuse established designs while improving timing margin.
“PCIe clock generators, including Diodes’ PCIe 7.0 clock generator, help streamline system integration to support these advances,” said Al Yanes, PCI-SIG President and Chairperson.
The PI6CG33A06 is available in a 40-pin, 5 mm x 5 mm VQFN (ZLF) package, priced from $2.80 in 3,000-piece quantities.
Source: Diodes
