Phase-locked-loop (PLL) frequency synthesizers produce frequencies that cling to a reference frequency using PLLs. Integral PLL frequency synthesizers use an integer to divide the output frequency whereas fractional PLL frequency synthesizers use a non-integer.

Satellite communications, broadband wireless access, mobile hand sets, wireless base stations, personal digital assistants and local area networks (LANs)all have PLL frequency synthesizer applications. If you're in the process of looking for a PLL frequency synthesizer, consider taking the following steps while you are searching for the right product:

1. Analyze the performance specifications before you buy PLL frequency synthesizers.

2. Decide if the refurbished items sold by suppliers of PLL frequency synthesizer devices can meet your business needs.

3. Contact manufacturers of PLL frequency synthesizers for customized products.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Investigate the performance specifications prior to buying a PLL frequency synthesizer

Sellers of PLL frequency synthesizers provide a wide range of products that can match your business requirements. Carefully match the performance specifications with your business operations to ensure proper usage of the PLL frequency synthesizer you purchase.

I recommend: Fujitsu provides a large selection of single and dual PLL frequency synthesizers including Integer and Fractional-N dual PLLs. This company is an IT-based business solutions industry leader around the globe. SFS Series PLL by Z-Communications offers 400MHz to 10 GHZ, fixed frequency, ultra-low phase noise, a self locking mechanism and more. Z-Communications is ISO 9001:2000 Certified and the largest PLL manufacturer for commercial RF and wireless markets providing Standard PLLs, Compact PLLs and the SFS Series PLLs.

Consider refurbished products offered by distributors of PLL frequency synthesizers

Sellers of PLL frequency synthesizer devices offer financing options as well as refurbished and used items that can save you money. Determine if these resources can meet your business requirements.

I recommend: Rent a refurbished Agilent-HP E5052A Signal Source Analyzer (SSA) from Test Equipment Connection. This supplier offers financing options that include: rent, lease, buy or trade as well as repairs and calibration. Silicon Laboratories makes the PLL frequency synthesizer Si4222. This programmable, high-resolution application is designed for use with a EZRadio FSK receiver and makes it possible to have multiple channels in any band as well as fast frequency-hopping.

Ask PLL manufacturers to customize your product

If you're unable to find suppliers of PLL frequency synthesizers that can meet your business requirements consider contacting to a manufacturer for assistance. Several makers of PLL frequency synthesizers offer to build products in accordance with the client's specifications.

I recommend: MITEQ is the designer and manufacturer of wide range of frequency synthesizers that include PLL technology as well as customized solutions to meet your specific business requirements. GED offers a variety of versatile PLL synthesizers including fractional N frequency synthesizer techniques. All of the company's frequency synthesizers are optimized to meet the specifications of the customer. A technical staff can assist you with designing a solution that meets the needs of your business.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Look for PLL frequency synthesizers with outputs up to 8 GHz to use in conversion applications.