May 11, 2012 — Mixed-signal semiconductor supplier Integrated Device Technology, Inc. (IDT, NASDAQ: IDTI), introduced a piezoelectric micro electro mechanical system (MEMS) resonator technology that does not use crystals. IDT has branded the components CrystalFree pMEMS (piezoelectric MEMS).

The crystal-free low-voltage differential signaling (LVDS) and low-voltage positive emitter-coupled logic (LVPECL) oscillators suit high-performance communications, consumer, cloud, and industrial applications. They operate with well below 1 picosecond of phase jitter. The IDT 4M oscillators operate with ±50 ppm frequency accuracy from -40° to +85°C and support frequencies of up to 625 MHz. IDT’s pMEMS oscillators are available in industry-standard 7 x 5mm (7050) and 5 x 3.2mm (5032) standard plastic packages. They are designed to replace traditional 6-pin crystal oscillators (XOs).

Also read: MEMS resonators vs. crystal oscillators for IC timing circuits

Thanks to the CrystalFree pMEMS resonator technology, IDT can rapidly factory-program the desired output frequency for the IDT 4M series oscillators without fine-tuning crystals. The nominal resonator frequency of pMEMS is much higher than quartz crystal, enabling 4M oscillators to achieve higher frequencies at lower cost without lower performance. Crystals are also expensive.

IDT expanded its pMEMS technology into high-performance applications like communications to provide a cost-effective XO replacement, said Fred Zust, VP and GM, Timing and Synchronization Division at IDT. “IDT’s patented pMEMS resonator technology combines the strong electromechanical coupling of the piezoelectric material with the stability and low damping of single-crystal silicon.”

IDT also offers solid-state oscillators in its frequency control portfolio.

The IDT 4M oscillators are currently sampling to qualified customers and are available in hundreds of configurations based on frequency, voltage, output types and industry standard packages.

Integrated Device Technology, Inc., the Analog and Digital Company, develops system-level solutions that optimize its customers’ applications. IDT stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Stock Market under the symbol IDTI. Additional information about IDT is accessible at www.IDT.com.

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